1. action or speech that deliberately angers or annoys someone
2. something that causes a particular reaction or response

Examples

• He hit back only after extreme provocation.
• The protesters ignored police provocation and remained peaceful.
• Her constant criticism was a provocation he could no longer tolerate.
• The new policy was seen as a provocation by the opposition party.
• Without any provocation, the dog began barking loudly.
• The article was written as a deliberate provocation to spark debate.
• She responded calmly despite the obvious provocation.