Stick used in prodding (3)

I believe the answer is:

rod

'stick' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

'in prodding' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'ROD' is hidden within 'prodding'.

'used' is the link.

(Other definitions for rod that I've seen before include "Wand - fishing stick" , "Old saying 'Spare the . . . and spoil the child'" , "Angler's pole" , "Imperial measure" , "Instrument of punishment" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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