prod

Noun

• a pointed instrument that is used to prod into a state of motion

• a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something
  • the ceaseless prodding got on his nerves
    

Verb

• poke or thrust abruptly
  • he jabbed his finger into her ribs
    

• urge on; cause to act
  • The other children egged the boy on, but he did not want to throw the stone through the window
    

• to push against gently
  • She nudged my elbow when she saw her friend enter the restaurant
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  goad , goading , prodding , urging , spur , spurring , jab , stab , poke , dig , incite , egg on , nudge , poke at