Provocation
/ˌprɒvəˈkeɪʃən/noun
The act of provoking or inciting someone to react.
Did you know?In ancient Roman law, provocation was considered a legitimate defense, turning words into weapons in the courtroom and beyond.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
provocatio
“A calling forth, challenge, or appeal”
Old French
Old French
provocation
“An incitement or cause of action”
Middle English
Middle English
provocacioun
“The act of calling forth or inciting”
Modern English
English
provocation
“The act or process of provoking, especially to anger or response”