prodding

[prod-ing] / ˈprɒd ɪŋ /

VERB

poke at

Synonyms

STRONGEST

nudge press

STRONG

crowd dig drive elbow goose jab jog prick punch push shove

Antonyms

STRONG

discourage dissuade pull repress

VERB

urge, incite

Synonyms

STRONGEST

goad motivate prompt propel provoke remind spur stimulate

STRONG

crowd excite exhort goose impel instigate move pique prick push rouse sic sound spark trigger

WEAK

egg on jog memory stir up turn on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

depress discourage dissuade halt prevent stop

STRONG

calm quiet repress suppress

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.

Massie has been one of the loudest House voices prodding the Trump administration to release more information on the sex offender and his accomplices.

From Slate • May 19, 2026

The military is prodding contractors to make their weapons more compatible with AI models.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

“He’s obviously one of the best wing defensive rebounders in the NBA. He’s able to generate steals and deflections. And, with some prodding, he’s taking charges as well.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2026

The day will need him at his gobsmacking best; poking and prodding, controlling and surprising, putting men into gaps and sticking points on the board.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

Grandpop inched closer and started gently prodding Ernie’s face, feeling, Genie suspected, for any changes, like swelling or broken bones.

From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds