To "provoke" means to?

To "provoke" means to anger, arouse, or bring to action. This verb is often used in contexts where someone's actions or words incite a strong emotional response in another person, such as anger or excitement. For example, a statement meant to challenge someone might provoke them to respond more actively, whether defensively or offensively. The root meaning of provoke inherently involves eliciting a reaction, often one that is strong or intense.

This definition aligns with the term's use in various contexts, such as social situations, discussions, or conflicts, where the intention is typically to stimulate a response or action from others. Emphasizing the active nature of provoking helps clarify how it differs fundamentally from concepts related to calming or soothing, which are about reducing unrest or discomfort.