Poke at Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To touch, push, or prod something or someone repeatedly, often gently or with a finger or object. It can also mean to criticize someone in a teasing or indirect way.
Usage & Nuances
Often informal. Commonly used for lightly touching food but not eating it ('poke at your food'), or for playful physical gestures. Also used for teasing critique ('poke at someone's idea'). Don't confuse with 'poke' (to jab) or 'poke fun at' (to make fun of).
Example Sentences
Please don't poke at the animals in the cage.
basic
He just poked at his dinner and didn't eat much.
basic
The child likes to poke at the buttons on the remote control.
basic
She kept poking at the puzzle pieces, trying to make them fit.
natural
Stop poking at my drawing! If you have suggestions, just tell me.
natural
He likes to poke at complicated problems just for fun.
natural