noun an appeal to a court. [a latinism].
2. provocation ·noun incitement; stimulus; as, provocation to mirth.
3. provocation ·noun the act of provoking, or causing vexation or, anger.
4. provocation ·noun that which provokes, or excites anger; the cause of resentment; as, to give provocation.
5. provocation ·noun such prior insult or injury as may be supposed, under the circumstances, to create hot blood, and to excuse an assault made in retort or redress.