what is goad

A goad is a pointed stick or prod used to drive or guide livestock, usually oxen, which are pulling a plough or a cart. It is also used to round up cattle. The word is from Middle English gode, from Old English gād. In a figurative sense, a goad can refer to anything that pricks or wounds like such a stick. It can also mean a stimulus to action, such as an incentive, inducement, spur, or motivation. To goad someone means to deliberately make them feel angry or irritated, often causing them to react by doing something.