solicitous

[ suh-lis-i-tuhs ]

adjective

1. anxious or concerned (usually followed by about, for, etc., or a clause):

   solicitous about a person's health.

   Synonyms: attentive, regardful, mindful

   Antonyms: careless, unconcerned

2. anxiously desirous:

   solicitous of the esteem of others.

3. eager (usually followed by an infinitive):

   He was always solicitous to please.

4. careful or particular:

   a solicitous housekeeper.

solicitous

/ səˈlɪsɪtəs /

adjective

1. showing consideration, concern, attention, etc
2. keenly anxious or willing; eager

Derived Forms

• soˈlicitousness, noun
• soˈlicitously, adverb

Other Words From

• so·lici·tous·ly adverb
• so·lici·tous·ness noun
• nonso·lici·tous adjective
• nonso·lici·tous·ly adverb
• nonso·lici·tous·ness noun
• unso·lici·tous adjective
• unso·lici·tous·ly adverb
• unso·lici·tous·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of solicitous¹

First recorded in 1555–65, solicitous is from the Latin word sollicitus anxious. See solicit, -ous

Word History and Origins

Origin of solicitous¹

C16: from Latin sollicitus anxious; see solicit

Example Sentences

Schumer’s signature is wearing out his flip phone with constant, solicitous communication.

From Time

If Obama has proven a god-send for the oligarchs, he has been less solicitous of small business.

From The Daily Beast

In a world increasingly bending toward snark, Updike managed to remain curious, solicitous, a gentleman.

From The Daily Beast

Mrs. Ducksmith quickly recovered from her fainting attack, and gently pushed the solicitous Aristide away.

From Project Gutenberg

Be not solicitous therefore, saying: What shall we eat: or what shall we drink, or wherewith shall we be clothed?

From Project Gutenberg

It was John's solicitous voice, and it was followed by a quick movement from Suzanne's side of the table.

From Project Gutenberg

He stopped, suddenly solicitous of her, on the point of suggesting that she might prefer not to be seen returning thus.

From Project Gutenberg

The "sire," fell on the ears of Madame Chalice like a mot in a play; but Valmond, living up to his part, was grave and solicitous.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• attentive
• loving
• mindful
• worried
• zealous