'solicit' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sollicitare,' where 'sollicitus' meant 'anxious or troubled.'

'sollicitare' transformed into the Old French word 'solliciter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'solicit' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to disturb or trouble,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to ask for or seek something.'