Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SO-LIC'IT, v.t. [L. solicito; Fr. solliciter; It. sollecitare. I know not whether this word is simple or compound; probably the latter. Qu. L. lacio.]

1. To ask with some degree of earnestness; to make petition to; to apply to for obtaining something. This word implies earnestness in seeking, but I think less earnestness than beg, implore, entreat, and importune, and more than ask or request; as when we say, a man solicits the minister for an office; he solicits his father for a favor. Did I solicit thee / From darkness to promote me? – Milton.
2. To ask for with some degree of earnestness; to seek by petition; as, to solicit an office; to solicit a favor.
3. To awake or excite to action; to summon; to invite. That fruit solicited her longing eye. – Milton. Sounds and some tangible qualities solicit their proper senses, and force an entrance to the mind. Locke.
4. To attempt; to try to obtain. I view my crime, but kindle at the view, / Repeat old pleasures and solicit new. – Pope.
5. To disturb; to disquiet; a Latinism rarely used. But anxious fears solicit my weak breast. – Dryden.