poking
Definition
Noun: 1. The act of prodding or jabbing: A quick, sharp push with a finger, a pointed object, or the fist. 2. A gesture resembling a blow: A sudden, thrusting motion made with the hand or fist, often as a warning or to emphasize a point.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She gave him a sharp poking in the ribs to get his attention.
- His constant poking at the fire with a stick sent sparks flying into the air.
- He emphasized his argument with an angry poking of his finger on the table.
Advanced Usage
- "to give someone a poking": To jab or prod someone, usually to gain their attention or as a playful or admonishing gesture.
- If he falls asleep in the meeting, give him a gentle poking.
Variants and Related Words
- Poke (verb): To prod or jab.
- Don't poke the animal through the fence.
- Poke (noun): An act of poking; a jab.
- She felt a poke in her back.
Synonyms
- Jab: A quick, sharp poke or blow.
- Prod: A poke intended to urge or stir into action.
- Thrust: A sudden or violent pushing movement.
- Nudge: A gentle poke, usually with the elbow.
Related Phrases
- Poke fun at: To tease or make jokes about someone.
- The comedians loved to poke fun at politicians.
- Poke around/about: To look around or search in a casual or nosy way.
- She began to poke around in the old attic, looking for treasures.
- Poke one's nose into: To interfere in or inquire about something that is not one's concern.
- He's always poking his nose into other people's business.
Noun
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a sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow)
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he warned me with a jab with his finger
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he made a thrusting motion with his fist
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