illegal

Definition

Contrary to, forbidden, or not authorized by law, especially criminal law.

Etymology

Borrowed from French illégal, from Medieval Latin illegalis, from Latin legalis, by surface analysis, il- + legal. In senses relating to immigration, via clipping of illegal alien or illegal immigrant.

Example Sentences

• "This is illegal, you know!"
• "Nearly 40 million people live in UK areas with illegal air pollution"
• "Their illegal mining operations in Asia, Africa and elsewhere, are protected by officials and police paid to look the other way – and powerful customers in the construction industry who prefer not to ask too many questions."