goad

[gohd]

noun

1. a stick with a pointed or electrically charged end, for driving cattle, oxen, etc.; prod.

2. anything that pricks or wounds like such a stick.

3. something that encourages, urges, or drives; a stimulus.

verb (used with object)

1. to prick or drive with, or as if with, a goad; prod; incite.

   Synonyms: impel, push, spur

goad

/ ɡəʊd /

noun

1. a sharp pointed stick for urging on cattle, etc

2. anything that acts as a spur or incitement

verb

1. (tr) to drive with or as if with a goad; spur; incite

Other Word Forms

• goadlike adjective
• ungoaded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of goad¹

before 900; Middle English gode, Old English gād; compare Langobardic gaida spearhead

Word History and Origins

Origin of goad¹

Old English gād, of Germanic origin, related to Old English gār, Old Norse geirr spear

Example Sentences

They felt he had been goaded into a moment of weakness.

From BBC

“What that family suffered is truly, truly horrific and truly unconscionable. The lies that were told, the goading of the family, all of that is absolutely horrendous.”

From Los Angeles Times

They try to goad The Edge into dancing for the BBC's TV crew.

From BBC

We can expect some goading and taunting at the ceremonial way in this evening.

From BBC

He defended those actions and said he will continue to stand up for what he believes is "right" by challenging those trying to goad him into a reaction on camera.

From BBC

Related Words

• coerce 
• harass 
• hound 
• prod 
• provoke 
• tease