trigger word

noun

1. a word that initiates a process or course of action

Example Sentences

Councilman Andrew Whitman, the sole vote against the resolution, called it divisive, especially because the Israeli community considers “cease-fire” to be “a trigger word” and “the equivalent of saying, ‘Lay down your arms and die.’”

From Los Angeles Times

Councilwoman Suza Francina said she also had heard “cease-fire” described as a trigger word, as well as people blaming the resolution for contributing to antisemitism.

From Los Angeles Times

The word “plastic” — the trigger word in the film “The Graduate” — was too temptingly easy even for writers of large reputation.

From Los Angeles Times

Amazon says its Alexa products are designed to record as little as possible, starting with the trigger word, “Alexa,” and stopping when the user’s command ends.

From Reuters

Speaking to Andrew Ross Sorkin at the DealBook Online Summit, Meghan said ambition was a “trigger word” when applied to women.

From New York Times