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Meaning of provokes
The primary meaning of the word "provokes" is to stimulate or arouse a reaction, emotion, or action, often in a negative or controversial way.
Etymology of provokes
The word "provokes" comes from the Latin word "provocare", which means "to call forth" or "to challenge"
The Latin word is a combination of "pro" (forth) and "vocare" (to call)
The word has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the act of stimulating or arousing a reaction or emotion
Synonyms
incites
stimulates
arouses
evokes
induces
prompts
triggers
motivates
inspires
instigates
goads
prods
urges
spurs
encourages
exhorts
intimidates
taunts
teases
irritates
aggravates
infuriates
enrages
antagonizes
offends
affronts
insults
provokes
invigorates
galvanizes
energizes
animates
excites
inflames
kindles
sparks
ignites
fuels
fans
stirs
awakens
summons
calls
beckons
lures
entices
tempts
allures
seduces
coerces
compels
constrains
obliges
necessitates
impels
drives
pushes
thrusts
Definitions
- To stimulate or arouse a reaction, emotion, or action, often in a negative or controversial way
- * To incite or instigate someone to do something, often by making them angry or annoyed
- * To provide a stimulus or incentive for something to happen or someone to act
Usage Examples
- The politician's speech provoked a strong reaction from the audience
- * The new policy provokes controversy and debate among experts
- * The teacher's question provoked a thoughtful discussion among the students
Antonyms
calms
soothes
pacifies
tranquilizes
mollifies
appeases
placates
reassures
comforts
alleviates
mitigates
moderates
tempers
dampens
suppresses
stifles
represses
restrains
inhibits
discourages
disheartens
depresses
demotivates
dispirits
deflates
demoralizes
devastates
crushes
overwhelms