invoke

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To mention or refer to something, such as a law or rule, to support your argument.

   The lawyer invoked an old law to defend her client.

2. 2
   verb

   To bring a feeling, image, or memory to someone's mind.

   The old song invoked memories of her childhood.

3. 3
   verb

   To call on a god or spirit for help or protection.

   The priest invoked the gods to bless the harvest.

4. 4
   verb

   To cause a computer program or function to run.

   You can invoke the program by typing its name in the terminal.

From Middle English *invoken, envoken, borrowed from Old French envoquer, from Latin invocāre (“to call upon”), itself from in- + vocare (“to call”). Doublet of invocate.

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