elicit

[ ih-lis-it ]

verb (used with object)

1. to draw or bring out or forth; educe; evoke:

   to elicit the truth;

   to elicit a response with a question.

elicit

/ ɪˈlɪsɪt /

verb

1. to give rise to; evoke

   to elicit a sharp retort

2. to bring to light

   to elicit the truth

Derived Forms

• eˌliciˈtation, noun
• eˈlicitor, noun
• eˈlicitable, adjective

Other Word Forms

• e·lic·i·ta·tion [ih-lis-i-, tey, -sh, uh, n] noun
• e·lic·i·tor noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of elicit¹

First recorded in 1635–45; from Latin ēlicitus “drawn out” (past participle of ēlicere ), equivalent to ē- “from, out of” ( e- ¹ ) + lici- “draw, lure” + -tus past participle suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of elicit¹

C17: from Latin ēlicere to lure forth, from licere to entice

Example Sentences

But I’m sure in time my latest markings in the book, like photos of an old hairstyle, will also elicit an eye roll.

From Los Angeles Times

Linda’s video didn’t seem to elicit a reaction from him, but it got one from Brooke Hogan.

From Los Angeles Times

They also forced Girardi to testify under oath about his finances, eliciting an extraordinary admission from him at a time when he still enjoyed a reputation as a wealthy and influential lawyer.

From Los Angeles Times

If he can elicit that response, he’s already brought us closer to his art.

From Salon

Both dinner parties are part of an attempt to elicit the truth.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bring out
• evoke
• extort
• extract
• obtain
• wrest
• wring