provocative

adjective

prə-ˈvä-kə-tiv How to pronounce provocative (audio)
Definition of provocativenext
as in exciting
serving or likely to arouse a strong reaction a provocative editorial that sparked a heated discussion

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of provocative The provocative photo is the latest in a string of daring fashion moments from the Grammy-winning singer, who has continued to command attention with her unapologetic style. — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026 My comedy is often read as provocative for provocation’s sake or always in deliberate bad taste. — Ivy Wolk, Vulture, 28 Oct. 2026 That wasn’t the only provocative subject that came up during the latest Weekend Update. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 24 Oct. 2026 Cold and bitter, yet still provocative, or at least trying to be. — Sofia Franklyn, Vanity Fair, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for provocative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for provocative
  1. exciting
  2. charged
  3. provoking
  4. motivational
  5. stimulating
  6. edgy
Adjective
  • The exciting duo of quarterback Braden Atkinson and Heisman Trophy hopeful wide receiver Jesse Legree leads the Beavers.
    — Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 8 Nov. 2026
  • Properties are primarily based in cities, and Mallorca feels like a fresh and exciting new arm to its impressive portfolio, which now spans 46 hotels as well as private residences.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Nov. 2026
Definition of exciting
Adjective
  • The result is an urgent, propulsive song with a raw spirit and some of Pop’s most super-charged writing with deceptively simple lyrics about love and war, dripping with desperation.
    — Debby Wolfinsohn, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026
  • What Happens Next Greene is likely to continue stoking controversy by breaking with her party, as conversations around immigration remain charged and divisive.
    — Alia Shoaib, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025
Definition of charged
Adjective
  • Straker, the foul-mouthed, Daily Mail–provoking British chef, has made his way stateside.
    — Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Read Cep’s Profile of Kingsolver » Our editors and critics choose the most captivating, notable, brilliant, surprising, absorbing, weird, thought-provoking, and talked-about books.
    — Casey Cep, New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2026
Definition of provoking
Adjective
  • Cut Unnecessary Meetings And Distractions When business gets tough, the last thing employees need is a motivational speech followed by twice the workload.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 6 Nov. 2026
  • On the columns of train stations, stickers bore the smiling faces of soldiers in their twenties alongside motivational quotes and the dates of their births and deaths.
    — Jordi Graupera, New Yorker, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of motivational
Adjective
  • Those who understand quickly move forward, while those who need more time, a different explanation or a less stimulating environment can easily fall behind.
    — Irma Davarashvili, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 2026
  • These adaptogenics also cost as much, if not more, than alcoholic spirits, such as Three Spirit, which incorporates ingredients such as guayusa (stimulating effects), damiana (aphrodisiac effects) and valerian (stress-relieving effects).
    — Esther Tseng, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Sep. 2026
Definition of stimulating
Adjective
  • Like all good colloquialisms, the word was adaptable and edgy and undeniably fun to say.
    — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 5 Nov. 2026
  • It is also understood that Kering wants to take Balenciaga back to its edgier, and less romantic, Demna days.
    — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 2026
Definition of edgy

Browse Nearby Words

provocations
provocative
provocatively
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Cite this Entry

“Provocative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provocative. Accessed 10 Nov. 2026.

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