goad
Plural
goads
1
a pointy instrument used to prod animals into motion, especially in farming or herding
- The farmer used a goad to drive the oxen forward.
- A wooden goad hung beside the stable door.
- The herder tapped the cattle with a goad to keep them moving.
- Ancient carvings depict shepherds holding goads in their hands.
- The goad was tipped with iron to make it more effective.
Synonyms:
2
a remark that urges or challenges someone to act, by irritating or daring them
- Her challenge was a subtle goad to prove him wrong.
- He responded to the goad with unexpected confidence.
- The coach's words served as a powerful goad before the match.
- That sarcastic remark was clearly a goad to provoke a reaction.
- The dare acted as a goad to test his limits.