goad

/goʊd/

/gəʊd/

Other forms: goaded; goading; goads

A goad is a pointy stick or other instrument used to prod something along. To goad is to poke something with that pointy stick. Either way, the pointiness is really essential for making things leap into action.

Originally spelled gad, meaning “spearhead,” goad first came into use as a verb in the 1570s. But say you left your pointy goading stick at home. Have no fear! You can goad people with words, too. Literally or figuratively, a goad prods and pokes and provokes people into doing something. A sheep herder might hustle his flock along with a goad, just as your mom's constant nagging and goading might finally get you sit up straight at the dinner table.

Definitions of goad

1. verb

   stab or urge on as if with a pointed stick
   synonyms: prick

   type of:

   jab, stab

   stab or pierce
2. verb

   urge with or as if with a goad
   types:

   spur

   goad with spurs

   type of:

   egg on, incite, prod

   urge on; cause to act
3. verb

   goad or provoke, as by constant criticism
   synonyms: needle

   type of:

   beset, chevvy, chevy, chivvy, chivy, harass, harry, hassle, molest, plague, provoke

   annoy continually or chronically
4. verb

   give heart or courage to
   synonyms: spur

   type of:

   encourage

   inspire with confidence; give hope or courage to
5. noun

   a pointed instrument that is used to prod into a state of motion
   synonyms: prod

   types:

   ankus

   an elephant goad with a sharp spike and a hook

   gad, spur

   a sharp prod fixed to a rider's heel and used to urge a horse onward

   type of:

   device

   an instrumentality invented for a particular purpose
6. noun

   a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something
   synonyms: goading, prod, prodding, spur, spurring, urging

   type of:

   encouragement

   the expression of approval and support