The term 'poke gently' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: TAP (3 letters) and NUDGE (5 letters). TAP is an action that involves lightly hitting or prodding something with a finger or an object. NUDGE is an action that involves pushing or urging someone or something in a gentle way. Both of these actions are done gently, and they are often used to get someone's attention or to encourage them to do something.