solicitation
/ˌsɒlɪsɪˈteɪʃən/ · so·li·ci·ta·tion
noun
- The act of asking for or trying to obtain something, especially money, help, or information. The charity's solicitation of donations was met with generous responses.
- A formal request or appeal, often in writing. She sent a solicitation to the board asking for a budget increase.
- In law, the act of offering or requesting an illegal service, such as prostitution or bribery. He was arrested on charges of solicitation of prostitution.
- The practice of seeking business or customers, especially by direct contact. Cold‑calling is a common form of solicitation in sales.
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Did you know? The word gained a distinct legal meaning in the 19th‑century United States, where statutes began to criminalize the solicitation of prostitution and other illicit services.