The meaning of PROVOKE is to call forth (a feeling, an action, etc.) : evoke. How to use provoke in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Provoke.

PROVOKE definition: 1. to cause a reaction, especially a negative one: 2. to make or try to make a person or an animal…. Learn more.

To incite to anger or resentment: taunts that provoked their rivals. 2. To stir to action or feeling: a remark that provoked me to reconsider. 3. To give rise to; bring about: a miscue that provoked laughter; …

PROVOKE definition: to anger, enrage, exasperate, or vex. See examples of provoke used in a sentence.

If you provoke someone, you deliberately annoy them and try to make them behave aggressively. He started shouting at me but I didn't do anything to provoke him. [VERB noun] I provoked him into …

provoke something to cause a particular reaction or have a particular effect. The announcement provoked a storm of protest. The article was intended to provoke discussion. Dairy products may …

Anything that brings about a strong reaction can be said to provoke. You can provoke that lion if you want. But if he responds by attacking, don't come running to me.

Factsheet What does the verb provoke mean? There are nine meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb provoke, four of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and …

to stir up, arouse, or call forth (feelings, desires, or activity): The mishap provoked a hearty laugh. to incite or stimulate (a person, animal, etc.) to action.

Nov 21, 2025 · provoke (third-person singular simple present provokes, present participle provoking, simple past and past participle provoked) Don't provoke the dog; it may try to bite you.