1. (

• goad ,
• goading ,
• prod ,
• prodding ,
• urging ,
• spur ,
• spurring

) a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something; "the ceaseless prodding got on his nerves" ;

1. (

• spur ,
• goad

) give heart or courage to ;

2. (

• goad

) urge with or as if with a goad ;

3. (

• goad ,
• prick ,

) stab or urge on as if with a pointed stick ;

4. (

• needle ,
• goad ,

) annoy or provoke, as by constant criticism; "He needled her with his sarcastic remarks" ;