Meaning & Definition of word "Elicit"

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    Elicit

    /ɪˈlɪsɪt/

    verb:

    • 1. to draw out a response, answer, or fact from someone in reaction to one's own actions or questions.
      • Example: The teacher tried to elicit a response from the quiet student.
    • 2. to bring to light or to bring out something hidden or concealed.
      • Example: The investigation was able to elicit new evidence.
    • 3. to produce or provoke a reaction or feeling.
      • Example: The documentary was designed to elicit an emotional response from viewers.
    • 4. to evoke or extract information from a source.
      • Example: The counselor aimed to elicit feelings of comfort and safety during the session.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'elicere', meaning 'to draw out, bring forth'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    elicit a response:

    to provoke an answer or reaction from someone.

    elicit information:

    to obtain facts or details from someone.

    Related Words

    evoke:

    to bring or recall a feeling, memory, or image to the conscious mind.

    extract:

    to remove or take out, especially by effort or force.

    Slang Meanings of elicit

    Meaning: To get someone to reveal something.

    Example Sentence: He managed to elicit the truth from her after some prodding.

    Meaning: To draw out feelings or emotions.

    Example Sentence: Her song really elicited some tears from the audience.