Meaning & Definition of word "Trigger"

Trigger

/ˈtrɪɡər/

1. a device that initiates a mechanism, especially in firearms.
- Example: She pulled the trigger and the gun fired.
2. an event or situation that causes something to happen.
- Example: The tragedy was the trigger for the community to come together.
3. a stimulus that provokes a reaction or response.
- Example: Stress can often be a trigger for anxiety.

1. to cause something to happen or to set off an event.
- Example: The loud noise triggered an alarm.
2. to initiate a sequence of events or actions.
- Example: The announcement of the sale triggered a rush of customers.
3. to activate a device or mechanism.
- Example: He pulled the lever to trigger the machine.

●Middle English, from Old French 'trigger', literally meaning 'to excite or stimulate'.

pull the trigger:

To make a decision to act, often after considering it for some time.

trigger warning:

A notice that a piece of content may evoke a traumatic memory or response.

triggered:

A colloquial term for being emotionally affected or aggravated by something.

stimulus:

Something that provokes a response or reaction.

catalyst:

A substance or person that precipitates an event or change.

impetus:

A force that makes something happen or happen more quickly.

Meaning: Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally upset.

● Example Sentence: I was totally triggered by that comment.

Meaning: To provoke a strong emotional response.

● Example Sentence: That movie really triggered me.