provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈvä-kə-tiv 

: serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate

a provocative question

provocative noun

provocatively adverb

provocativeness noun

Synonyms of provocative

• exciting
• charged
• provoking
• motivational
• motivating
• stimulating
• edgy

Examples of provocative in a Sentence

a thoughtful and provocative book

It was one of his more provocative suggestions.

She was wearing a very provocative outfit.

Recent Examples on the Web

The show does have some provocative moments, including a series of portraits by Andrea Modica from 1999. —Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 27 Apr. 2026

But his comments are a part of a broader, more provocative agenda, said sources familiar with the bilateral relationship. —Steve Fisher, Los Angeles Times, 26 Apr. 2026

Thanks to you, Robert and The Box for an incredible run of thoughtful, provocative shows, championing artists and art scenes from the past and present. —Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 25 Apr. 2026

Beyond the series’ provocative premise, its most resonant moments belong to Harbour. —Clayton Davis, Variety, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for provocative

• evocative
• talkative
• vocative

Kids Definition

provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈväk-ət-iv 

: serving or tending to provoke

provocative comments

provocatively adverb

provocativeness noun

Medical Definition

provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈväk-ət-iv 

: serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate

provocative test for coronary spasm

—The Journal of the American Medical Association