Actively seeking or requesting something, such as business, donations, or support; present participle of solicit.
From Latin sollicitare meaning 'to disturb, agitate, move,' from sollicitus (anxious, concerned). The word evolved from causing anxiety to actively pursuing or requesting, entering English through Old French.
The original meaning of 'disturbing' or 'agitating' reveals how solicitation was once viewed as inherently disruptive - you had to disturb someone's peace to get their attention. This etymology explains why unsolicited contact is often seen as unwelcome or intrusive.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.