Goad

The goad is a traditional farming implement, used to spur or guide livestock, usually oxen, when pulling a plow or a cart; used also to round up cattle. It is a type of long stick with a pointed end, also known as the cattle prod.

The word is from Middle Englishgode, from Old Englishgād.

In Sophocles's Oedipus Rex, Oedipus's father Laius tried to kill his son with a goad when they accidentally met at a crossroads.