a stick with a pointed or electrically charged end, for driving cattle, oxen, etc.; prod.

anything that pricks or wounds like such a stick.

something that encourages, urges, or drives; a stimulus.

to prick or drive with, or as if with, a goad; prod; incite.

noun

deterrent , discouragement , diversion , restraint

verb

discourage , dissuade

noun

catalyst , compulsion , desire , drive , impetus , impulse , impulsion , incentive , incitation , incitement , irritation , lash , lust , motivation , passion , pressure , prod , spur , urge , whip , zeal , instigation , provocation , trigger

verb

animate , annoy , arouse , bully , coerce , drive , encourage , excite , exhort , fire up , force , goose * , harass , hound , impel , inspirit , instigate , irritate , key up , lash , move , needle * , press , prick * , prod , prompt , propel , provoke , push , put up to , rowel , sic , sound , spark * , spur , stimulate , sting * , tease , thrust , trigger , turn on * , urge , whip * , work up , worry , egg on , foment , galvanize , incite , inflame , inspire , motivate , pique , prick , set off , touch off , ease , needle