Prod (verb)

1. To poke or push something with a pointed object.
2. To urge or encourage someone to do something.

Origin:

From middle english prodde ("to poke, prod"), of uncertain origin.

Examples:

1. He prodded the fire with a stick to make it burn brighter.
2. She prodded the horse to make it move forward.
3. The teacher prodded the students to start their homework.
4. He prodded her to speak up and tell him what was on her mind.
5. She prodded him to take the initiative and ask her out on a date.