Meaning & Definition of word "Provoking"

Provoking

/prəˈvoʊkɪŋ/

verb:

  • 1. To stimulate or incite to action.
    • Example: The activist was provoking the crowd to join the march for climate change.
  • 2. To cause a particular feeling or reaction.
    • Example: Her words were provoking a sense of guilt that he could not shake off.

adjective:

  • 1. Causing or likely to cause annoyance, anger, or strong reactions.
    • Example: His provoking comments during the meeting led to heated discussions among the team.
  • 2. Eliciting a strong emotional response or reaction.
    • Example: The film had a provoking storyline that made the audience reflect on their own lives.

Etymology

From Latin 'provocare', meaning 'to call out, challenge'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

provoking thoughts:

Ideas that stimulate discussion or contemplation.

provoking reaction:

Something that elicits an emotional response.

provoking behavior:

Actions that are designed to elicit annoyance or anger.

Related Words

provoke:

To cause someone to take an action or feel an emotion.

provocation:

The action of provoking someone.

provocateur:

A person who provokes others deliberately.

Slang Meanings of provoking

Meaning: Playing with emotions.

Example Sentence: He's always provoking, trying to get a rise out of people.

Meaning: Stirring the pot.

Example Sentence: She loves provoking the group just for the fun of it.