Definition of "solicitous" adjective comparative more solicitous , superlative most solicitous
Disposed to solicit ; eager to obtain something desirable , or to avoid anything evil . quotations examples
Quotations To that end , the then Biſhop of London , Dr Laud , attended on his Majeſty throughout that whole journey […] to accompliſh which he was no leſs ſollicitous than the King himſelf , nor the King the leſs ſollicitous for his Advice .
1646–48, Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon, The History of the Rebellion, volume III, Oxford: Ro. Mander, published 1707, book I, page 82
(Usually followed by about , for , etc ., or a clause ) Showing care , concern , or attention , in any of several ways ; thus :
In a conscientious way , often with kindness . quotations examples
Quotations You have not only been careful of my fortune , which was the effect of your nobleneſs , but you have been ſolicitous of my reputation , which is that of your kindneſs .
1666 November 10, John Dryden, “Annus Mirabilis: The Year of Wonders”, in The Poetical Works of John Dryden, volume I, London: F. C. and J. Rivington et al., published 1811, page 78
In an anxious or distressed way . quotations examples
Quotations Enjoy the preſent whatſoever it be , and be not ſollicitous for the future : for if you take your foot from the preſent ſtanding , and thruſt it forward toward to morrow ’s even , you are in a reſtleſs condition , it is like refuſing to quench your preſent thirſt by fearing you ſhall want to drink the next day .
1650, Jeremy Taylor, “Of Christian Society”, in The Rule and Exercises of Holy Living, 19th edition, London: J. Hepinstall, published 1703, section VI, page 114