provoke — to cause a reaction, especially anger or another strong emotion
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to cause a reaction, especially anger or another strong emotion
Pronunciation (IPA): /prəˈvoʊk/
Example Sentences
- The cat deliberately provoked the dog by sitting on its food bowl.
- Her controversial statement provoked heated debate on social media.
- Don't provoke your little brother, or he'll start crying again.
provoke
VERB[/prəˈvoʊk/]
to cause a reaction, especially anger or another strong emotion
The little brother keeps poking the bear costume to provoke his sister into chasing him.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'provocare', meaning 'to call forth' or 'to challenge', composed of 'pro-' (forward) and 'vocare' (to call). The word entered English via Old French 'provoquer' in the 14th century.
Breakdown
pro- (forward, forth) + vok (call, voice, from Latin vocare) + -e (infinitive ending) = provoke (to call forth, to incite)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The cat deliberately provoked the dog by sitting on its food bowl.”
“Her controversial statement provoked heated debate on social media.”
“Don't provoke your little brother, or he'll start crying again.”
“The comedian's jokes provoked both laughter and controversy.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.