Provoke

/prəˈvoʊk/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to stimulate or incite someone to do or feeling something.

His comments were intended to provoke a reaction from the audience.

to cause a particular reaction or feeling.

The movie was designed to provoke thought about social issues.

to annoy or irritate someone.

She knew that her teasing would provoke him.

to bring about or cause an event or situation.

The changes in policy may provoke widespread protests.

to incite anger or resentment.

His rude behavior was sure to provoke anger among his peers.

Latin 'provocare' meaning 'to call forth, challenge'

provoke a response

to elicit a reaction from someone.

provoke thought

to stimulate consideration or contemplation.

provoke someone to action

to incite or encourage someone to take action.

provocation

the act of provoking or inciting someone.

provocative

causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction.

provocateur

a person who provokes trouble, causes dissension, or encourages others to act.

to get someone riled up.

He knows how to provoke them just for fun.

to get a rise out of someone.

She loves to provoke her brother until he reacts.