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Showing results for "provoking"
Synonyms

provoking

American  
[pruh-voh-king] / prəˈvoʊ kɪŋ /

adjective

  1. serving to provoke; causing annoyance.


Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of provoking

First recorded in 1520–30; provoke + -ing 2


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Hours after Pillay was named the laureate, the United States announced new sanctions against the ICC, provoking swift condemnation from member states and the United Nations.

From Barron's ● Oct. 10, 2026

They say these molecules may have several practical advantages, including relatively inexpensive production, stability and a low likelihood of provoking an immune response.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 10, 2026

When the party got together in the same West Midlands venue a year ago, they were an insurgency provoking intrigue and attention and demonstrating plenty of momentum.

From BBC ● Sep. 3, 2026

Then two 6-10 players suddenly showed up at Kennedy, provoking a City Section investigation.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 23, 2026

I say, “Do it however you like,” provoking sullen fury from Jon.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood

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