Poke: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'poke' when you touch someone or something with a quick, sharp movement usually in a playful or annoying manner.

• She poked her friend in the side to get his attention.
• He kept poking at the fire with a stick.

Use 'jab' when you make a quick, forceful push, often with a pointed object or your finger. This word can sometimes have a slightly negative or aggressive connotation.

• He jabbed his finger at the map to show where they were.
• The nurse jabbed the needle into his arm.

Use 'prod' when you push someone or something with a finger or a pointed object, often to encourage them to move or do something. This can sometimes imply persistent encouragement.

• She prodded the dough to see if it was ready.
• He prodded his friend to go talk to the girl.

Use 'nudge' when you gently push someone or something, often with your elbow, usually to get their attention or encourage them to do something.

• She nudged him to wake him up.
• He nudged her and whispered a joke.