invoke

Pronunciation: in-VOHK

verb

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of invoke

To call upon or appeal to a higher power, authority, or principle for assistance, justification, or support, often in a formal or serious context.

Origin of invoke

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: invocare

Original meaning: to call upon

How it evolved: The word evolved from its original Latin usage in religious and legal contexts to encompass broader appeals to authority or principles in English.

The word 'invoke' originates from the Latin word 'invocare,' meaning 'to call upon' or 'to summon,' and entered English through Old French.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember invoke

Think of 'invoke' as 'in + vocalize': you are vocally calling in support or authority to help you.

Synonyms for invoke

Antonyms of invoke

invoke in a Sentence

  1. The defense lawyer attempted to invoke a precedent from an earlier case to strengthen her argument.
  2. During the ceremony, the priest invoked the blessings of the divine to protect the congregation.
  3. The politician invoked the memory of past leaders to inspire unity and resilience in the audience.

invoke in Literature & Culture

The word 'invoke' is commonly used in legal documents, religious texts, and philosophical writings, where appeals to authority or higher principles are central themes.

Usage Notes

While 'invoke' is often used in formal contexts such as legal, religious, or scholarly discussions, it should not be confused with 'evoke,' which typically refers to bringing a memory or feeling to mind.

Why invoke Matters for GRE & SAT

This word is important for GRE test-takers because it frequently appears in reading comprehension passages and verbal reasoning questions, particularly in contexts requiring an understanding of appeals to authority or principles.

Word Family

invocation (noun)
The action of invoking someone or something for assistance or as an authority.
invocative (adjective)
Serving to invoke or call forth.

Did You Know?

  • The word 'invoke' is often associated with magical or spiritual rituals, where a deity or spirit is summoned.
  • In literature, 'invoke' is frequently used in epic poetry, such as when poets invoke the muses for inspiration.
  • The root 'voc' in 'invoke' is shared with words like 'vocal,' 'voice,' and 'vocation,' all of which relate to calling or speaking.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with I

  • iconoclastic — challenging or overthrowing tradition or established beliefs
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  • ideologue — a person who advocates an ideology
  • ideologue — a person who advocates an ideology
  • ideology — A system of ideas and ideals forming the basis of a theory
  • ideology — A system of ideas and ideals forming the basis of a theory