Poke the Bear
Phrase · Slang & Abbreviations
Definitions
To touch a volatile person, system, or situation in a way that may trigger a disproportionate negative reaction. Engineers say it when they fear waking up hidden failure modes or political conflict.
In plain English: Trigger a risky reaction by disturbing something unstable or touchy.
Example: "I don't want to poke the bear by changing the old billing cron right before quarter close."