elicit

/ɪˈlɪsɪt/verb

To draw out a reaction, answer, or feeling from someone.

Example sentence

“The comedian's opening joke elicited only a few polite laughs.”

Not to be confused with 'illicit', meaning illegal. You elicit responses, information, laughter: the verb needs an audience to draw from.

Related words

eloquentAble to express ideas in a smooth, powerful, and convincing way, in speech or writing.elegantSimple and cleverly designed while still being exact and effective.eludeTo cleverly avoid or slip away from a person or thing trying to catch you.elderlyFairly old; describing a person who has reached the later years of life.elusiveHard to catch, find, understand, or remember.elderAn older, respected member of a community or tribe who is looked to for advice, guidance, or ceremonial duties.