complicity

[ kuhm-plis-i-tee ]

noun

, plural com·plic·i·ties.

1. the state of being an accomplice; partnership or involvement in wrongdoing:

   complicity in a crime.

   Synonyms: connivance, implication, intrigue, collusion

complicity

/ kəmˈplɪsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the fact or condition of being an accomplice, esp in a criminal act
2. a less common word for complexity

Other Words From

• com·plici·tous adjective
• noncom·plici·ty noun plural noncomplicities

Word History and Origins

Origin of complicity¹

1650–60; < Late Latin complic-, stem of complex complice + -ity

Example Sentences

This outrageous fiction builds on decades of GOP puffery and media complicity.

From Salon

The defendants admit their connection to the case, but they contest the charges of "terrorist association" or "complicity to commit terrorist murder".

From BBC

“We know that many in our communities are resistant to vote for Kamala Harris because of the Biden administration’s complicity in the genocide,” the letter says.

From Salon

Eugene Rwamucyo was found guilty of complicity in genocide, complicity in crimes against humanity, and of conspiring to prepare for those crimes.

From BBC

“In these dangerous times, staying silent isn’t just indifference, it is complicity. I’m standing up by stepping down from the editorial board.”

From Salon

Related Words

• collaboration
• collusion
• connivance
• guilt
• involvement
• manipulation