Entry Word: prod

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to urge or push forward with or as if with a pointed object <my sister keeps prodding me with her pencil to move along faster>

Synonyms goad, spur

Related Words chuck, jab, jog, nudge, poke; bore, drill, pierce, prick, punch, puncture, stab, stick; drive, propel

2 to try to persuade (someone) through earnest appeals to follow a course of action <a public outcry prodded the politicians into action> — see urge