Provocation (noun)

1. An action or remark that is intended to anger, annoy, or provoke someone.
2. An action or remark that incites or provokes a reaction or response.

Origin:

From latin provocatio, from provocare "to call forth, to challenge".

Examples:

1. His provocative statements were designed to provoke a reaction from the audience.
2. The soldier's provocation led to a physical altercation.
3. The provocation of the other drivers led to a road rage incident.
4. She felt that the question was a provocation and refused to answer.
5. The artist's provocative work was meant to challenge societal norms.