Synonyms for

Poke

Verb / pəʊk / Another word for poke — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to push or jab at someone or something with a finger or a pointed object

Synonyms & similar words

phytolaccaamericana thrusting garget stab scoke slug jab pry dawdler biff dig lick thrust pound clout paperbag punch lagger prod trailer laggard sack poking thump jabbing prod jab nudge push tap thrust shove dig hit thump butt jolt bump punch strike smack slap spank beat whack

Synonyms by register

Formal

prod nudge jab thrust

Informal

nudge prod poke fun at jab

Literary

prick goad prod

Antonyms

avoid ignore neglect shirk withdraw abstain

Common collocations

  • poke fun at
  • poke around
  • poke out
  • poke a hole
  • poke your nose in
  • poke the bear
  • poke a fire

Word family

noun poke
verb poke

Usage note

As a verb, 'poke' often implies a light, quick jab. 'Poke fun at' is a common idiom meaning to tease or ridicule someone.

Example sentences

  1. She poked her head out of the window to see what was going on outside.
  2. He poked the straw into the juice box and took a sip.
  3. I like to poke my cat's belly because she purrs.
  4. Don't poke your nose into other people's business.
  5. She poked him in the ribs to get his attention.

Quotes

  • I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think. - Socrates
  • The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing. - Socrates
  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do. - Steve Jobs

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