Meaning & Definition of word "Poke"

Poke

/poʊk/

noun:

  • 1. A quick or sharp touch or jab.
    • Example: She gave him a poke to wake him up.
  • 2. An act of prodding or thrusting with a finger or a stick.
    • Example: A poke from the stick was all it took to get the animal to move.

verb:

  • 1. To prod or jabs someone or something with a finger, stick, or other pointed object.
    • Example: She poked him in the side to get his attention.
  • 2. To thrust a finger or implement into something.
    • Example: He poked the fire with a stick to make the flames rise.
  • 3. To make a hole or indentation by pushing something into a surface.
    • Example: The child poked a hole in the paper with a pencil.

Etymology

Middle English 'poken', of uncertain origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

poke fun at:

To make fun of someone or something.

poke around:

To search through something in a casual manner.

poke one's nose into (something):

To interfere in others' affairs.

Related Words

jab:

To poke someone or something roughly or sharply.

prod:

To poke someone gently to urge them to act.

Slang Meanings of poke

Meaning: To send a brief message or to check in with someone.

Example Sentence: I will poke you later to see how you're doing.

Meaning: To tease or irritate someone playfully.

Example Sentence: Stop poking me, it’s annoying!