goad
UK[ɡəʊd]US[ɡoʊd]
v
to provoke or annoy someone so that they react
v
to urge an animal to move forward by prodding it with a pointed object
n
a pointed stick used for driving cattle
Etymology
the word 'goad' originates from the old english 'gād', meaning a spearhead or a pointed stick used for driving animals. this term is of germanic origin, related to the old norse 'gaddr' meaning 'spike' or 'goad'. the core concept of a sharp, prodding instrument is central to its history. over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically from the physical object to the act of provoking or urging, applying the same sense of a pointed stimulus to human behavior and motivation.
Analysis
the word 'goad' is a simplex word of old english origin. it does not break down into smaller, meaningful morphemes within modern english spelling.
Examples
the journalist's persistent questions were meant to goad the official into an unguarded response.
the farmer used a long goad to guide the oxen.
he didn't need much goading to tell the story again.