To goad or push someone to act.
Something used to goad or push someone to act.
A stick designed to goad cows, steers, and similar animals in order to prompt them to move in a desired direction, now usually electrified to administer a stimulating shock to the animal.
to goad or urge (a person) forward, especially to wicked actions; to provoke
to incite; to bring about by urging or encouraging