Prodding

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

prodding
    n 1: a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something;
         "the ceaseless prodding got on his nerves" [syn: {goad},
         {goading}, {prod}, {prodding}, {urging}, {spur},
         {spurring}]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Prod \Prod\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Prodded}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {Prodding}.]
   To thrust some pointed instrument into; to prick with
   something sharp; as, to prod a soldier with a bayonet; to
   prod oxen; hence, to goad, to incite, to worry; as, to prod a
   student. --H. Taylor.
   [1913 Webster]