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.
The fish-out-of-water comedy costarred Sam Shepard and reminded audiences of Keaton’s deft skills at leading a movie that mixed the funny with the dramatic and thought-provoking. Dan Heching, CNN Money, 11 Oct. 2025 Eclectic and thought-provoking, these films ask urgent questions about our past, present and future, alongside deeply personal stories of resilience and triumph. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 6 Oct. 2025 Rather, it is thought-provoking, honest and utterly necessary. Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 28 Sep. 2025 His biggest critique is not having enough time to answer all the thought-provoking questions that came at the end. Miami Herald, 23 Sep. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Provoking.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provoking. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

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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