Pronunciation: /prəˈvoʊk/

Definitions of provoke

noun something that provokes, such as a provoking remark or action

Example Sentences

A1 The loud noise from the construction site can provoke anxiety in some people.

A2 Her constant teasing can provoke anger in her classmates.

B1 The politician's speech was meant to provoke a reaction from the audience.

B2 The controversial art exhibit was designed to provoke thought and discussion.

C1 The provocative article was written to provoke debate among scholars.

C2 The filmmaker's work often seeks to provoke emotions and challenge societal norms.

verb to deliberately make someone angry or annoyed

Example Sentences

A1 Loud noises can provoke fear in animals.

A2 Her comments provoked a heated argument among the group.

B1 The controversial movie provoked strong reactions from the audience.

B2 The politician's speech provoked outrage among the citizens.

C1 The artist's work is known for its ability to provoke thought and discussion.

C2 The novel's controversial themes provoked intense debate among literary critics.

Examples of provoke in a Sentence

formal The speaker's inflammatory remarks were intended to provoke a response from the audience.

informal Don't let his comments provoke you into an argument.

slang She knew exactly how to provoke him, so she teased him mercilessly.

figurative The artist's bold use of color and texture in the painting seemed to provoke emotions in the viewers.

Grammatical Forms of provoke

past tense

provoked

plural

provokes

comparative

more provocative

superlative

most provocative

present tense

provokes

future tense

will provoke

perfect tense

has provoked

continuous tense

is provoking

singular

provoker

positive degree

provocative

infinitive

provoke

gerund

provoking

participle

provoking

Origin and Evolution of provoke

First Known Use: 0014 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'provoke' originated from the Latin word 'provocare' which means 'to call forth or challenge'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'provoke' has evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings beyond just challenging or calling forth, such as inciting anger or irritation.