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Showing results for "provoking"
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Synonyms

provoking

American  
[pruh-voh-king] / prəˈvoʊ kɪŋ /

adjective

  1. serving to provoke; causing annoyance.


Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of provoking

First recorded in 1520–30; provoke + -ing 2


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.

See Examples For:

His legal team played audio recordings, presented scientific articles and even a video of Maradona's autopsy, provoking the anger of the footballer's daughters.

From Barron's ● Oct. 21, 2026

They say these molecules may have several practical advantages, including relatively inexpensive production, stability and a low likelihood of provoking an immune response.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 10, 2026

Then two 6-10 players suddenly showed up at Kennedy, provoking a City Section investigation.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 23, 2026

Known as an “urchin” bait, the lure is dominating professional competitions, sparking a rush of imitators and provoking shelf-clearing buying frenzies.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 12, 2026

Mr. Woodhouse’s peculiarities and fidgetiness were sometimes provoking him to a rational remonstrance or sharp retort equally ill-bestowed.

From "Emma" by Jane Austen

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