Meaning & Definition of Provoke in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: to cause a person or animal to become irritated or angry.

  Example Sentence: His constant teasing provoked her to shout.

• Definition: to bring about an action or feeling.

  Example Sentence: The movie provokes deep thought about society.

• Definition: to stimulate or incite someone to do or feel something.

  Example Sentence: The speaker provoked a strong reaction from the crowd.

• Definition: to incite or stir up (a reaction or emotion).

  Example Sentence: The news article was meant to provoke discussion.

Etymology

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

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• 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.

Translations

• Spanish: provocar

• French: provoquer

• German: provozieren

• Russian: провоцировать

Related Words

• 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.

Slang Meanings of provoke

• 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.