poke
verb (used with object)
to prod or push, especially with something narrow or pointed, such as a finger, elbow, stick, etc..
poking
-
present participleof poke.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
It’s the reason so many of us walk to our cars with our keys poking through our fingers, why we tense up when someone walks too closely behind us on a dark street.
From Slate ● Oct. 9, 2026
“For some reason that no one can figure out, I really, really like you,” Johnson’s Trump told Mamdani, poking fun at the unlikely rapport between the president and the democratic socialist mayor.
From Salon ● Sep. 27, 2026
Seething at his dad for poking at his body insecurities, the comedian dealt with his emotions like any good millennial — by podcasting about it.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 1, 2026
I spent some of the newfound time poking in drawers, filing cabinets and closets.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 8, 2026
The next thing I knew I was awakened by Daisy, poking me with that old crutch of hers.
From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls
