Definition of poke

The word "poke" has a fascinating history. The term originated in the early 15th century, derived from the Old French word "pocher," which means "to thrust" or "to poke." This Old French word is thought to be related to the Latin word "pungere," meaning "to prick" or "to pierce." In Middle English, around the 14th century, the word "poke" took on new meanings. It began to be used as a verb, meaning "to thrust or push with a pointed object" or "to stick or insert." Over time, the word evolved to include meanings such as "to jostle" or "to touch gently." In modern English, the word "poke" is often used in various contexts, including cooking, such as poking a fork into food, and social media, where poke refers to a gentle and playful tap or touch on someone's profile picture. The word's evolution showcases the dynamic nature of language, where meanings can shift and adapt over time.