7 uses
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Definition
to cause a reaction — typically an emotional reaction such as anger; and sometimes caused intentionally
- This is all very provoking to Miss Scatcherd, who is naturally neat, punctual, and particular.Chapter 6 (56% in)
- Don't start when I chance to speak rather sharply; it's so provoking."Chapter 4 (96% in)
- "I was not dreaming," I said, with some warmth, for her brazen coolness provoked me.Chapter 16 (20% in)
- "How provoking!" exclaimed Miss Ingram: "you tiresome monkey!"Chapter 18 (60% in)
- He continued to send for me punctually the moment the clock struck seven; though when I appeared before him now, he had no such honeyed terms as "love" and "darling" on his lips: the best words at my service were "provoking puppet,"Chapter 24 (97% in)
- Look wicked, Jane: as you know well how to look: coin one of your wild, shy, provoking smiles; tell me you hate me — tease me, vex me; do anything but move me: I would rather be incensed than saddened.Chapter 25 (64% in)
- I thought Diana very provoking, and felt uncomfortably confused; and while I was thus thinking and feeling, St. John bent his head; his Greek face was brought to a level with mine, his eyes questioned my eyes piercingly — he kissed me.Chapter 34 (44% in)
There are no more uses of "provoke" in Jane Eyre.
Typical Usage
(best examples)