v.
Pronunciation: pr ə - ' v ō k
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: pro · voked ; pro · vok · ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French *provoker, provocher , from Latin provocare, from pro- forth + vocare to call, from voc-, vox voice ― more at PRO- , VOICE
Date: 14th century
1 a archaic : to arouse to a feeling or action b : to incite to anger
2 a : to call forth (as a feeling or action) : EVOKE < provoke laughter> b : to stir up purposely < provoke a fight> c : to provide the needed stimulus for <will provoke a lot of discussion>
– pro · vok · er noun
synonyms PROVOKE , EXCITE , STIMULATE , PIQUE , QUICKEN mean to arouse as if by pricking. PROVOKE directs attention to the response called forth <my stories usually provoke laughter>. EXCITE implies a stirring up or moving profoundly <news that excited anger and frustration>. STIMULATE suggests a rousing out of lethargy, quiescence, or indifference < stimulating conversation>. PIQUE suggests stimulating by mild irritation or challenge <that remark piqued my interest>. QUICKEN implies beneficially stimulating and making active or lively <the high salary quickened her desire to have the job>. synonym see in addition IRRITATE