invoke
ihn-VOHK
Invoke (verb) means to call on something, such as a rule, law, or higher power, for support or justification. Example: “The lawyer invoked a little-known clause to defend her client.”
verb
1
To call on something, such as a rule, law, or higher power, for support or justification.
"The lawyer invoked a little-known clause to defend her client."
"She invoked her right to remain silent."
2
Computing: to cause a program, function, or command to run.
"The script invokes a separate function to process each file."
How to use invoke
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo call on something — a rule, a power, or a piece of code — to back you up or make something happen.
Common pairings
invoke a rule
invoke a spirit
invoke a function
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- invokes
- Past tense
- invoked
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The lawyer _____ a little-known clause to defend her client.
Etymology
From Latin invocare, "to call upon" (in- + vocare, "to call").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for invoke
See all rhymes for invoke →Frequently asked questions
What does “invoke” mean?
The word “invoke” means to call on something, such as a rule, law, or higher power, for support or justification. In plain terms, to call on something — a rule, a power, or a piece of code — to back you up or make something happen.
How do you pronounce “invoke”?
“Invoke” is pronounced ihn-VOHK (/ɪnˈvoʊk/ in IPA).
How do you use “invoke” in a sentence?
Here is “invoke” used in a sentence: “The lawyer invoked a little-known clause to defend her client.”
What part of speech is “invoke”?
“Invoke” is a verb.
Where does the word “invoke” come from?
The word “invoke” comes from Latin. From Latin invocare, "to call upon" (in- + vocare, "to call").
Is “invoke” a common word?
“Invoke” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “invoke” have?
“Invoke” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to call on something, such as a rule, law, or higher power, for support or justification.
