Provoke Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary
1
:
to cause the occurrence of (a feeling or action)
:
to make (something) happen
-
His remarks provoked both tears and laughter.
-
His insults were intended to provoke [=start] a fight.
-
The results of the election have provoked [=generated] a lot of discussion.
-
ideas that are likely to provoke [=stimulate] change
2
:
to cause (a person or animal) to become angry, violent, etc.
-
He just says those things because he's trying to provoke you.
-
The animal will not attack unless it is provoked.
— sometimes + into
-
He was provoked into a violent reaction by their taunts.