goad

[ gohd ]

noun

1. a stick with a pointed or electrically charged end, for driving cattle, oxen, etc.; prod.
2. anything that pricks or wounds like such a stick.
3. something that encourages, urges, or drives; a stimulus.

verb (used with object)

1. to prick or drive with, or as if with, a goad; prod; incite.

   Synonyms: impel, push, spur

goad

/ ɡəʊd /

noun

1. a sharp pointed stick for urging on cattle, etc
2. anything that acts as a spur or incitement

verb

1. tr to drive with or as if with a goad; spur; incite

Derived Forms

• ˈgoadˌlike, adjective

Other Words From

• goad·like adjective
• un·goad·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of goad¹

before 900; Middle English gode, Old English gād; compare Langobardic gaida spearhead

Word History and Origins

Origin of goad¹

Old English gād, of Germanic origin, related to Old English gār, Old Norse geirr spear

Example Sentences

Work requirements, then, become both a punitive element and a goad toward “personal responsibility,” a term that appears in Project 2025’s chapter on Medicaid.

From Los Angeles Times

Tyson had refused to engage with Paul's goading for much of fight week, but slapped his opponent across the face, prompting security and team members to rush in to separate the fighters.

From BBC

Paul tried to goad Tyson by asking him about comments made in a documentary where the former champion described himself as "natural born killer".

From BBC

The beef continued at the Source magazine awards on 3 August 1995, when Knight goaded Combs and Bad Boy Records from the stage.

From BBC

As they goad each other, they act pettily and childishly but is also great fun to watch the superb actors go toe-to-toe.

From Salon