Meaning & Definition of word "Provoke"

Provoke

/prəˈvoʊk/

1. to stimulate or incite someone to do or feeling something.
- Example: His comments were intended to provoke a reaction from the audience.
2. to cause a particular reaction or feeling.
- Example: The movie was designed to provoke thought about social issues.
3. to annoy or irritate someone.
- Example: She knew that her teasing would provoke him.
4. to bring about or cause an event or situation.
- Example: The changes in policy may provoke widespread protests.
5. to incite anger or resentment.
- Example: 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.

Meaning: to get someone riled up.

Example Sentence: He knows how to provoke them just for fun.

Meaning: to get a rise out of someone.

Example Sentence: She loves to provoke her brother until he reacts.