provocation
- The act of provoking or inciting someone to react, often in anger or annoyance. nounThe constant noise from the construction site was a provocation to the nearby residents.His rude comments were seen as a provocation, causing an argument to erupt.
- Something that incites, instigates, angers, or irritates. nounThe provocative article served as a provocation for a heated debate.The decision to increase taxes acted as a provocation for public protests.