provocative
Americanadjective
noun
adjective
Other Word Forms
- half-provocative adjective
- nonprovocative adjective
- nonprovocatively adverb
- nonprovocativeness noun
- provocatively adverb
- provocativeness noun
- quasi-provocative adjective
- quasi-provocatively adverb
- unprovocative adjective
- unprovocatively adverb
- unprovocativeness noun
Etymology
Origin of provocative
First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English word from Late Latin word prōvocātīvus. See provocation, -ive
Explanation
If something is provocative, it provokes a reaction. A provocative book might get people talking about a controversial idea. A provocative statement, such as "I hate babies," will get another kind of reaction. The action, thought, or feeling is often a desired one, called forth on purpose. In fact, provocative is often used to describe actions or ways of dressing that cause sexual feelings. But provocative things can also call forth something unwanted: "She was angered by the provocative remarks." This adjective was borrowed from French provocatif, from Late Latin provocativus "calling forth," from Latin provocare "to call forth, challenge."
Vocabulary lists containing provocative
The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 1
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100 Top "SAT" Words
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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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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.
Donald Trump is no stranger to provocative language.
From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026
Some sports media types believe SI is largely a nostalgia play in a landscape where young fans go elsewhere for game highlights and turn to provocative hosts such as Pat McAfee on YouTube.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026
The first time “Buffy” ended, Gellar attempted to shake off the slayer with a slew of fascinating, genuinely provocative roles that utilized her skillset.
From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026
During the show's five years on-screen, Miley Cyrus' public image became more provocative, causing concerns at the time due to the contrast with Hannah's squeaky clean vibe.
From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026
She had been brought up around plenty of cursing, and knew every word and provocative construction, but since she’d become a mother, since she’d converted, she hadn’t sworn more than once or twice.
From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
