poke
UK: pəʊk | US: poʊk
vt. to prod or push something lightly, especially with a finger or pointed object
vt. to make a hole or opening by pushing something through
n. a quick, light prod or push
n. (informal) a slow or lazy person
The word "poke" likely originated as an onomatopoeic term, imitating the sound or motion of a light thrust or prod. It first appeared in Middle English as poken, with no clear earlier Germanic or Latin roots. Over time, it retained its core meaning of a gentle push or penetration, while also developing informal uses like "slowpoke" (a sluggish person). Due to its uncertain and possibly imitative origin, "poke" is treated as a monomorphic word and not further split.
She gave him a playful poke in the ribs.
He used a stick to poke holes in the soil for planting seeds.
Don’t poke the bear—it might get angry!
The child poked at the jellyfish with a seashell.
(Informal) "Hurry up, you slowpoke!" she called to her dawdling friend.