Provoke

Definition

Provoke generally means to stimulate or incite someone to react, often in a negative manner.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈvoʊk/
• Respelling: pruh-VOHK (with "pruh" as in the beginning of "prune," and "VOHK" as in "oak" with a 'v' sound at the start)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈvəʊk/
• Respelling: pruh-VOHK (similar to American English, with "pruh" as in the beginning of "prune," and "VOHK" as in "oak" with a 'v' sound at the start)

In both dialects, "provoke" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "VOHK." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the "pruh" and emphasizing the "VOHK."

Etymology

The word "provoke" is derived from the Latin "provocare," meaning "to call forth" or "challenge." It is a combination of "pro-" meaning "forth" and "vocare" meaning "to call."

Derivatives

• Provoker
• Provoking
• Provocation
• Provocative
• Provokedly

Synonyms

• Incite
• Stimulate
• Instigate

Antonyms

• Soothe
• Calm
• Dissuade

Usage

"Provoke" is typically used in contexts where a person, event, or thing triggers a reaction or response, particularly of a negative or challenging nature.

Related Terms

• Stimulus
• Agitation
• Trigger
• Reaction
• Response

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To stimulate or incite someone to react, especially in an angry or emotional manner.
• Example: His remarks were meant to provoke laughter, but they ended up causing offense.

• To bring about or cause a particular reaction or event.
• Example: The new policy might provoke a backlash from the public.

• To challenge or confront someone, especially in a way that is likely to cause retaliation.
• Example: She loved to provoke her brother by hiding his favorite toys.