invoke

//ɪnˈvəʊk//

Verbs
C1

Translation

invoke

Definition

To invoke means to call upon or appeal to something, such as a law, principle, authority, or higher power, for support, justification, or assistance. In computing, it also refers to activating a function, command, or program. This verb is often used in formal or technical contexts, where someone deliberately brings a rule, idea, or deity into action or discussion. For example, a lawyer might invoke a specific statute in court, or a programmer might invoke a subroutine in code. The word carries a sense of intentional summoning or activation, whether in legal, spiritual, or technical domains.

Example

  • The lawyer decided to invoke the Fifth Amendment during the trial.

  • To start the program, you must invoke the main function.

  • The priest will invoke a blessing at the end of the ceremony.

  • She invoked her right to remain silent when questioned by the police.

  • The president invoked emergency powers to handle the crisis.

  • In his speech, he invoked the memory of his grandfather as a source of inspiration.

  • The software allows users to invoke commands through a simple interface.

  • Ancient rituals were performed to invoke the gods for a good harvest.

  • The critic invoked the author's earlier works to support her argument.

  • You can invoke the help function by pressing F1 on your keyboard.

Synonyms

call upon
summon
appeal to
activate
cite

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