goad (
http://definr.com/goad)
n 1: a pointed instrument used to prod into motion [syn:
prod]
2: a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something;
"the ceaseless prodding got on his nerves" [syn:
goading,
prod,
prodding,
urging,
spur,
spurring]
v 1: give heart or courage to [syn:
spur]
2: urge with or as if with a goad
3: prod or urge as if with a log stick [syn:
prick]
4: goad or provoke,as by constant criticism; "He needled her
with his sarcastic remarks" [syn:
nettle,
needle]