Provocation

1. An appeal to a court. [A Latinism]
2. That which provokes, or excites anger; the cause of resentment; as, to give provocation.
3. Such prior insult or injury as may be supposed, under the circumstances, to create hot blood, and to excuse an assault made in retort or redress.
4. The act of provoking, or causing vexation or, anger.
5. Incitement; stimulus; as, provocation to mirth.