Evoke
/ɪˈvəʊk/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo bring a feeling, memory, or image to the conscious mind.
/ɪˈvəʊk/
To bring or recall a feeling, memory, or image to the conscious mind.
The old photographs evoked a sense of nostalgia.
💡 Simply: Imagine a magic mirror that shows you a memory. When you *evoke* something, you're like using that mirror to make a feeling or memory pop into your head. For example, a song might *evoke* feelings of nostalgia.
👶 For kids: To make you remember something, or make you feel a certain way. Like when a song makes you remember a fun day!
More Examples
The speech evoked strong emotions from the audience.
The aroma of baking bread evoked memories of her grandmother.
How It's Used
"The novel's descriptions of the landscape evoke a sense of peace and tranquility."
"Certain smells can evoke strong childhood memories."
To create a particular mood, atmosphere, or image.
/ɪˈvəʊk/
The film's soundtrack skillfully evokes a sense of suspense.
💡 Simply: Think of a painting that makes you *feel* something. When something *evokes* an image, it's like it's painting a picture with feelings and thoughts. For instance, the dim lighting *evokes* a mysterious feeling in the room.
👶 For kids: To make you feel a certain way, like when a spooky movie evokes a scary feeling!
More Examples
The poem's imagery evokes a vivid picture in the reader's mind.
The architect designed the building to evoke a feeling of grandeur.
How It's Used
"The artist's use of color evokes a sense of sadness."
"The minor key evokes a feeling of melancholy."
Idioms & expressions
evoke a response
To cause someone to react or reply.
"His controversial statement was designed to evoke a response from his critics."
evoke a feeling
To produce a particular emotion in someone.
"The music evoked a feeling of joy in everyone."
From Latin *ēvocāre* 'to call forth', from *ē-* 'out' + *vocāre* 'to call'. It originally meant to summon or call forth, later broadening to its current senses.
The word 'evoke' has been used since the 16th century, originally meaning to summon or call forth, and gradually broadening to encompass the emotional and imaginative associations it has today.
Memory tip
Think of *e*- (out) and *vocare* (call). It's like calling something out of your mind.
Word Origin
"to call out"