provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈvä-kə-tiv 

: serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate

a provocative question

provocative noun

provocatively adverb

provocativeness noun

Synonyms

• charged
• edgy
• exciting
• inciting
• instigating
• instigative
• piquing
• provoking
• stimulating

Examples of provocative in a Sentence

a thoughtful and provocative book

It was one of his more provocative suggestions.

She was wearing a very provocative outfit.

Recent Examples on the Web

The movie’s sharp humor and layered storytelling explore themes of faith and ambition in a way that feels both fresh and provocative. —Okla Jones, Essence, 9 Dec. 2024

To photograph her as a model, in the bold outfits and provocative poses that advertising and editorial employ, renders that photographic language distinctly visible, and critiquable. —Max Norman, ARTnews.com, 9 Dec. 2024

The provocative online personality, Johnny Somali, could be jailed for up to five years for his antics and his trial is due to start on December 20, according to YouTube lawyer Legal Mindset. —Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024

The rebrand is characterized by an edgy, provocative aesthetic. —Timothy Papandreou, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈväk-ət-iv 

: serving or tending to provoke

provocative comments

provocatively adverb

provocativeness noun

Medical Definition

provocative

adjective

pro·​voc·​a·​tive prə-ˈväk-ət-iv 

: serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate

provocative test for coronary spasm

—The Journal of the American Medical Association