What does solicitous mean?
Solicitous describes a person who shows attentive, eager care for the needs, comfort, or well-being of someone else. It is often used for conduct that is more considerate than strictly necessary, as in a solicitous host anticipating guests' requirements or a solicitous relative checking on a family's welfare. The word generally has a favorable, formal, or literary tone, although its meaning can become mildly critical when the concern seems excessive, protective, or fussy. It is especially associated with careful attention to other people rather than merely having good intentions. The related adverb solicitously describes the manner of such caring behavior, while solicitousness names the quality itself. Solicitous is distinct from the more general words caring and thoughtful because it often suggests an active, watchful concern with someone's practical or emotional needs.
adjectiveShowing attentive and eager care for another person's well-being or needs. It can also suggest that someone is overly concerned or fussy.
- Showing eager, attentive, or excessive care for another person's well-being or needs.
"Her solicitous attention ensured that every guest felt comfortable and welcome."
"The solicitous nurse checked on each patient throughout the night."
"His solicitous concern for detail made the negotiations difficult but ultimately successful."
Solicitous means caring enough to anticipate what someone needs—sometimes even before they ask.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does solicitous come from?
Solicitous entered English from the Latin adjective sollicitus, meaning anxious, careful, or concerned. That word is related to Latin sollicitare, meaning to disturb, trouble, or solicit, and is also the source of English solicit, solicitation, and solicitor. Its historical association with worry and care explains its modern sense of attentive or sometimes excessive concern.
Related word forms
How solicitous is actually used
Usually commendatory, emphasizing attentiveness and genuine concern, but it can imply excessive fussiness or overprotection. The adjective is less common in everyday speech than in formal or literary writing.