1. people who are in a country without legal permission or proper documentation
Usage: informal; often considered offensive or derogatory

Examples

• The politician’s use of the term ‘illegals’ was criticized by immigrant advocacy groups.
• Many prefer the term ‘undocumented workers’ instead of ‘illegals.’
• The debate over how to refer to people without legal status continues.
• Immigration officials processed several cases involving undocumented individuals.
• The newspaper changed its style guide to avoid using ‘illegals’ as a noun.