Goad - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
To provoke or urge someone to act, often annoyingly or persistently.
Synonyms:
Prod, spur, incite, provoke, stimulate
Part of Speech:
Verb, noun
Antonyms:
Discourage, deter
Common Collocations:
Goad someone into action, goad relentlessly, use as a goad
Derivatives:
Goading, goaded
Usage Tips:
Use "goad" to describe persistent urging or provoking someone to act, often with irritation.
Common Phrases:
Goad into action, goad on, use as a goad
Etymology:
From Old English "gād," meaning a pointed stick used to drive cattle; related to "goad" as a verb.
Examples:
- 1. She tried to goad him into joining the debate.
- 2. His teasing was meant to goad her into reacting angrily.
- 3. The coach used praise as a goad to motivate the team.
- 4. Don’t let their comments goad you into making a mistake.