as in evoking
to draw out (something hidden, latent, or reserved)
the role elicited the actress's flair for comedy that previous directors had overlooked
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of eliciting
With the ball staying fair — and eliciting an emphatic reaction from Amed Rosario near the Bombers’ bench — the Yankees picked up their first homer of the season and their first runs of the day.
—
Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 27 Mar. 2026
Magliano said as the segment kicked off, eliciting laughter from the live audience.
—Ellise Shafer, Variety, 21 Mar. 2026
Trump also jokingly compared the US’ surprise strikes on Iran to Japan’s 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, eliciting an awkward reaction from Takaichi.
—J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 19 Mar. 2026
Volume is key for eliciting shock gobble.
—Natalie Krebs, Outdoor Life, 11 Mar. 2026
But the expansion is eliciting opposition from landowners, conservationists, local officials, consumer advocates and even states.
—Marc Levy, Fortune, 8 Mar. 2026
Ten minutes in, the new pitch began eliciting whiffs, altering the conversation in the coaches’ room.
—Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026
Trump told the men’s team during the call, eliciting laughs in the background.
—Rachel Roberts, Idaho Statesman, 27 Feb. 2026
Similar to when the on-air incident happened in 2023, news of Kuiper’s return was a hot topic Wednesday night on social media, eliciting strong opinions in support and against Kuiper’s return.
—Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 26 Feb. 2026
Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 27 Mar. 2026
Magliano said as the segment kicked off, eliciting laughter from the live audience.
—Ellise Shafer, Variety, 21 Mar. 2026
Trump also jokingly compared the US’ surprise strikes on Iran to Japan’s 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, eliciting an awkward reaction from Takaichi.
—J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 19 Mar. 2026
Volume is key for eliciting shock gobble.
—Natalie Krebs, Outdoor Life, 11 Mar. 2026
But the expansion is eliciting opposition from landowners, conservationists, local officials, consumer advocates and even states.
—Marc Levy, Fortune, 8 Mar. 2026
Ten minutes in, the new pitch began eliciting whiffs, altering the conversation in the coaches’ room.
—Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026
Trump told the men’s team during the call, eliciting laughs in the background.
—Rachel Roberts, Idaho Statesman, 27 Feb. 2026
Similar to when the on-air incident happened in 2023, news of Kuiper’s return was a hot topic Wednesday night on social media, eliciting strong opinions in support and against Kuiper’s return.
—Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 26 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for eliciting
Verb
-
It is celebrated with a ceremonious parade that features a cavalcade of men dressed in Roman soldier costumes, evoking a sense of solemn thanksgiving and spiritual devotion.—
Condé Nast Traveler,
Condé Nast Traveler,
28 Mar. 2026
-
Their advertising and website are dotted with images evoking speed, such as black-and-white checkered flags and sparks flying from chair wheels.—
Trista Kurniawan,
CNN Money,
28 Mar. 2026
Verb
-
Fragrance layering allows for infinite scent possibilities beyond the pre-prescribed notes in a single eau de parfum, inspiring both a spirit of play and individuality.—
Conçetta Ciarlo,
Vogue,
2 Apr. 2026
-
Plus, learn the awe-inspiring history behind these buildings and their architects.—
Encyclopedia Britannica,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Eliciting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/eliciting. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
