Definition

Involved with others in doing something wrong or illegal; being part of a crime or wrongdoing.

Example

The company was found to be complicit in the environmental disaster.

Conversation

Did you hear about that company involved in the scandal?

Yeah, it’s alarming how complicit they seem to be with the wrongdoing.

I wonder how many other businesses are complicit in similar situations.

It makes you question who you can really trust these days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Complicit → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "plicare" (meaning to fold). The word "complicit" describes being involved with others in wrongdoing or folding oneself into a situation together with others.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'together' ('com-') in a situation where you 'fold' yourself into wrongdoing ('plicare'). This helps you remember that 'complicit' means being involved in something wrong with others.

Visually Confused Words