provoking
Americanadjective
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of provoking
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.
Its strategy, which has a narrow margin for error, depends on sustaining pressure without provoking overwhelming retaliation.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026
According to the study, this engineered transplant can promote bone healing without provoking strong immune reactions.
From Science Daily • Mar. 7, 2026
After the game, Benfica boss Jose Mourinho effectively blamed the player himself for provoking the situation.
From BBC • Feb. 18, 2026
Her style is confrontational and seemingly fearless, often provoking hugely divergent reactions from critics and fans.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026
“I never really saw it,” said the provoking girl.
From "Secrets at Sea" by Richard Peck
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.
