I. elicit adjective
Etymology: Latin elicitus, past participle
obsolete , of an act : proceeding from the will — contrasted with imperate
II. elic·it ēˈlisə̇t, ə̇ˈ-, usu -ə̇d.+V transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Latin elicitus, past participle of elicere, from e- + -licere (from lacere to allure) — more at delight
1.
a. : to draw or bring out (something latent or potential)
elicit a flame by the friction of the word — J.G.Frazer
elicited harmonious sounds from his instrument
the larger gatherings may have elicited more aspects of his thought and revealed more sides of his personality — Lucien Price
b. : to derive (as a truth or principle) by logical process : bring to view (as by reason or argument)
the controversy elicited one important truth
2. : to call forth or draw out (a response or reaction) : evoke , provoke , cause
his question elicited only a blank stare
best quality cauliflowers and carrots elicited keen bidding — Farmer's Weekly (South Africa)
his antics elicited applause and laughter
his ability to elicit support from subordinates
Synonyms: see educe