elicit definition - Dictionary

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e·lic·it [ i líssit ] (past and past participle e·lic·it·ed, present participle e·lic·it·ing, 3rd person present singular e·lic·its)

transitive verb

Definition:

1. provoke a reaction: to cause or produce something as a reaction or response to a stimulus of some kind

His jokes failed to elicit even the faintest of smiles from her.

2. draw out something hidden: to bring something to light or cause something to be disclosed, especially by a process of questioning or research

What were their chances of eliciting any worthwhile information from such an obstinately uncooperative witness?

[Mid-17th century. < Latin elicit-, past participle of elicere "draw out (by trickery)" < lacere "deceive"]

e·lic·i·ta·tion [ i lìssi táysh'n ] noun

e·lic·i·tor [ i líssitər ] noun

Spelling Note


	elicit or illicit? Do not confuse the spelling of elicit and illicit, which sound similar. Elicit is a verb meaning "produce as a response" or "bring to light," as in to elicit information. Illicit is an adjective meaning "illegal" or "socially unacceptable," as in engaging in illicit activities.