The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word GOAD
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
G
O
A
D
More clues leading to the result GOAD
- Proceed with commercial that provides motivation
- Urge to proceed with Bill
- Attempt with publicity to provoke
- Try to get publicity to provoke
- Drive away with van
- Something provoking adult in Rover’s Return?
- Get oxen advancing, driving initially
- Provoke attempt on a record, finally
- Provoke Energy Bill
- Prompt with advance publicity
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Something provoking" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case something provoking = goad.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GOAD mean?
GOAD noun- A long, pointed stick used to prod animals.
- That which goads or incites; a stimulus.
- To prod with a goad.
- To encourage or stimulate.
- To incite or provoke.