trigger

[ trig-er ]

noun

1. a small projecting tongue in a firearm that, when pressed by the finger, actuates the mechanism that discharges the weapon.
2. a device, as a lever, the pulling or pressing of which releases a catch or spring.
3. anything, as an act or event, that serves as a stimulus and initiates or precipitates a reaction or series of reactions.
4. something that evokes the memory of a traumatic experience, setting off an intense negative emotional reaction:

   This issue of the magazine contains accounts of sexual assault, and may be a trigger for some people.

5. Slang. triggerman.

verb (used with object)

1. to initiate or precipitate (a chain of events, scientific reaction, psychological process, etc.):

   Their small protest triggered a mass demonstration.

2. to fire or explode (a gun, missile, etc.) by pulling a trigger or releasing a triggering device:

   He accidentally triggered his rifle.

3. to set off a negative emotional reaction in (someone), as by evoking the memory of a traumatic experience, repeatedly raising a sensitive issue, etc.:

   I missed seeing my mom in the ICU before she died, and imagining her there triggers me every time I see ICU footage on TV.

verb (used without object)

1. to release a trigger.
2. to become active; activate.

trigger

/ ˈtrɪɡə /

noun

1. a small projecting lever that activates the firing mechanism of a firearm
2. machinery a device that releases a spring-loaded mechanism or a similar arrangement
3. any event that sets a course of action in motion

verb

1. usually foll by off to give rise (to); set off
2. to fire or set in motion by or as by pulling a trigger

Derived Forms

• ˈtriggered, adjective
• ˈtriggerless, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of trigger¹

First recorded in 1615–25; earlier tricker, from Dutch trekker, equivalent to trekk(en) “to pull” + -er -er ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of trigger¹

C17 tricker , from Dutch trekker , from trekken to pull; see trek

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. quick on the trigger, Informal. quick to act or respond; impetuous; alert.

More idioms and phrases containing trigger

In addition to the idiom beginning with trigger , also see quick on the draw (trigger) .

Example Sentences

Located on a cell's surface, this protein-based sensor recognizes an external signal that triggers the cell to respond -- usually by turning on a user-defined gene.

From Science Daily

She is investigating ways to help people feel hopeful, inspired and compassionate about political challenges, since these emotions can motivate action without triggering stress and anxiety.

From Los Angeles Times

Chemotherapy had in fact triggered an autoimmune condition, giving the impression of late-stage cancer.

From BBC

Our habits are shaped by two brain systems -- one that triggers automatic responses to familiar cues and another that enables goal-directed control.

From Science Daily

To help their child avoid getting angry or frustrated, parents say they often try to ensure they get enough sleep and exercise, help identify and avoid triggers and avoiding overscheduling.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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