Invoke
/ɪnˈvəʊk/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo cite or appeal to (something or someone) as an authority.
/ɪnˈvəʊk/
To cite or appeal to (someone or something) as an authority for an action or in support of an argument.
The President invoked executive privilege to withhold documents.
💡 Simply: When you *invoke* something, it's like calling on it for help or using it as a reason for doing something. Think of when a superhero *invokes* their special powers to save the day!
👶 For kids: To call on someone or something to help you.
More Examples
The protesters invoked their right to free speech.
The speaker invoked a sense of nostalgia in the audience.
How It's Used
"The lawyer invoked the Fifth Amendment to protect his client."
"The priest invoked God's blessing on the congregation."
"The author invoked the spirit of adventure in his characters."
To evoke or call forth a feeling, image, or spirit.
/ɪnˈvəʊk/
To bring (a feeling, quality, or spirit) into the mind.
The aroma of baking bread invoked memories of her grandmother's kitchen.
💡 Simply: When you *invoke* a feeling, it's like bringing it to life in your mind. For example, if a song *invokes* a feeling of happiness in you, it makes you feel happy.
👶 For kids: To make you think or feel something.
More Examples
The poem invoked a sense of melancholy.
The music invoked a feeling of peace.
How It's Used
"The painting invoked a feeling of tranquility."
"Therapy helps patients invoke positive memories to manage their emotions."
To put (a law, principle, right, etc.) into effect.
/ɪnˈvəʊk/
To put a law, regulation, or clause into effect; enforce.
The government invoked martial law to restore order.
💡 Simply: When you *invoke* a rule or law, you are using it. Like a superhero using their powers, you activate a rule or law.
👶 For kids: To use a rule or a law to do something.
More Examples
The defense attorney invoked his right to cross-examine the witness.
The company invoked a force majeure clause due to the pandemic.
How It's Used
"The judge invoked the statute."
"The government invoked emergency powers."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
invoke the name of
To use someone's name to gain support or authority.
"The politician invoked the name of a national hero to rally his supporters."
From Latin *invocare* 'to call upon, appeal to', from *in-* 'in, on' + *vocare* 'to call'.
The word has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally with religious connotations.
Memory tip
Imagine you need a higher power for help. You *invoke* their name to get them on your side.