Word: Poke at
Definition:
"Poke at" is a verb phrase that means to push or touch something lightly, often with a finger or an object. It can also mean to show interest or curiosity about something in a playful or teasing way.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "poke at" when you want to describe the action of gently pushing or prodding something, either physically or figuratively. This phrase is often used in informal contexts.
Example:
- "She poked at the cake with her fork to see if it was soft."
(In this example, the person is gently touching the cake with a fork.)
Advanced Usage:
Sometimes, "poke at" can be used in a more abstract sense, like when someone is teasing or making fun of a subject or issue.
- "The comedian poked at political issues during his stand-up routine."
(Here, it means the comedian made light of or joked about political topics.)
Word Variants:
- Poke (verb): The base verb form, meaning to touch or prod.
- Poked (past tense): The action has already happened.
- Poking (present participle): The action is currently happening.
Different Meanings:
- "Poke" can also mean to thrust or jab something sharply (e.g., "He poked his friend in the ribs.").
- It can refer to a casual online term, as in "to poke" someone on social media, which means to send a friendly reminder or message.
Synonyms:
- Prod
- Nudge
- Jab (though "jab" can imply a sharper action)
- Touch lightly
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
- Poke fun at: This means to make fun of someone or something in a light-hearted way.
- Example: "They poked fun at their friend's new haircut." - Poke around: This means to search for something in a casual or curious way.