provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈvä-kə-tiv How to pronounce provocative (audio)
: serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate
a provocative question
provocative noun
provocatively adverb
provocativeness noun

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
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.
As an odd sort of ethnography, though, the study tells a provocative story. Michael Pollan, New Yorker, 19 May 2025 These sparks can take many forms, such as a provocative article, a keynote speech that challenges conventional thinking, a compelling podcast interview or even a viral social media post. John Knotts, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025 Once best known for his satirical workplace humor, Adams became increasingly associated with provocative views, especially after embracing Trump during the 2016 election. Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 May 2025 The players drifting through this dreamscape include Daisy Ridley, Eliot Sumner, Willem Dafoe, and a host of other beautiful people clad in gauzy frocks and provocative bralettes. Lynn Yaeger, Vogue, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for provocative

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of provocative was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/provocative. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

provocative

adjective
pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈväk-ət-iv How to pronounce provocative (audio)
: serving or tending to provoke
provocative comments
provocatively adverb
provocativeness noun

Medical Definition

provocative

adjective
pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈväk-ət-iv How to pronounce provocative (audio)
: serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate
provocative test for coronary spasmThe Journal of the American Medical Association

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