provoking

adjective

pro·​vok·​ing prə-ˈvō-kiŋ How to pronounce provoking (audio)
: causing mild anger : annoying
provokingly adverb

Examples of provoking in a Sentence

the host's provoking opinions are the reason why people tune in to his radio talk show in the first place
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Venture Colonialism There is arguably no single scholar more well versed, incisive, and thought provoking than Stern in analyzing the evolution of joint-stock corporations in the British Empire. Caroline Elkins, Foreign Affairs, 22 Aug. 2023 Her work is technically amazing, thought provoking and has tons of heart. Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 17 Mar. 2024 His creative licensing with my performance, always thought provoking and precise with his 'on point' direction for my performance as Regan. Clark Collis, EW.com, 8 Aug. 2023 Still more provoking was Medill’s vow to ban all wooden buildings within the city limits. Margaret Talbot, The New Yorker, 2 Oct. 2023 See all Example Sentences for provoking 

Word History

First Known Use

1642, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of provoking was in 1642

Dictionary Entries Near provoking

Cite this Entry

“Provoking.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provoking. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

provoking

adjective
pro·​vok·​ing
prə-ˈvō-kiŋ
: causing mild anger : annoying
a provoking delay
provokingly
-kiŋ-lē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on provoking

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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