triggered

[ trig-erd ]

adjective

1. started, set in motion, or released by a specified thing or in a specified way:

   I saw an article online about obesity-triggered heart disease.

   When any of the cameras detects a motion, the LCD screen displays live video from the triggered camera.

2. fired or exploded by pulling a trigger or releasing a triggering device:

   One of the triggered missiles blew up in the second level of the building, injuring three people.

3. having an intense negative emotional reaction to something, usually something connected with past trauma or a bad experience:

   When a stressful social encounter makes me feel triggered and panicky, I try to distance myself from the situation.

   Consider using a triggered state, such as anger or anxiety, as a signal to yourself to pause and relax.

verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of trigger.

Other Words From

• un·trig·gered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of triggered¹

trigger ( def ) + -ed ²( def )

Example Sentences

A single flight from Los Angeles to Paris triggered the failure on Monday 28 August, the CAA report confirmed.

From BBC

Although uncommon, bananaphobia can be triggered by seeing or smelling the fruit and can cause serious symptoms like anxiety and nausea.

From BBC

In opening the meeting, Board Chair Janet Reilly said the outcome has triggered worry, fear and anxiety in some people, emotions she shared.

From Los Angeles Times

A recent investigation triggered by the federal corruption case against former Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas found significant problems in the county’s contracting process, prompting investigators to recommend a new ethics and compliance officer and other measures to prevent conflicts of interest.

From Los Angeles Times

The turmoil plunged Europe's largest economy into political chaos, hours after Donald Trump's US election victory triggered uncertainty about the future of the continent's economy and security.

From BBC

Related Words

• bring about
• cause
• generate
• produce
• prompt
• provoke
• set off
• spark
• start