invoke
verb (used with object)
to call for with earnest desire; make supplication or pray for.
had invoked
-
past perfectof invoke.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Some had invoked Susan B. Anthony’s opposition to the 15th Amendment, which extended voting rights to Black men but not women.
From Slate ● Nov. 3, 2026
But Epstein appeared none too pleased that Krauss had invoked him and his connections.
From Salon ● Feb. 6, 2026
Late Sunday, the Dutch government said it had invoked a Cold War-era law to effectively take control of the company, citing concerns about mismanagement.
From Barron's ● Oct. 14, 2025
The Dutch government said its economic affairs ministry had invoked its Goods Availability Act over "acute signals of serious governance shortcomings" within Nexperia.
From BBC ● Oct. 13, 2025
She had invoked the Mother’s mercy, appealing to the natural sympathy of one woman for another, but the three shriveled septas must have put their womanhood aside when they spoke their vows.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
