WordGarden.iotrigger
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈɪɡə/
US
- /ˈtrɪɡər/
Meanings
Verb
to cause something to start or happen, often suddenly
to provoke a distressing emotional reaction or resurface trauma
to activate an automated function, event, or process in software
Noun
something that sets off an event, process, or reaction
a cue or stimulus that provokes a traumatic or intense emotional response
the lever on a firearm that releases the firing mechanism
Beyond the definition
A trigger is something that sets something else in motion. Think of pulling the trigger on a gun - it makes the gun fire. But "trigger" is not just about firearms. It can be anything that starts an event, reaction, or memory. A certain song might trigger a happy childhood memory, while a harsh word could trigger someone's anger. In recent years, "trigger warning" has become common - it alerts people to content that might cause strong emotional reactions, especially ones linked to trauma. So, whether it is a mechanical action or an emotional response, a trigger is the thing that starts it all.
The word "trigger" originally referred to the part of a firearm that starts the firing process - the lever you pull to make the gun fire. This core meaning of setting something in motion has expanded over time into several related uses.
A trigger can be an event, action, or stimulus that causes a specific reaction or response. For example, "The news report triggered widespread panic," means the report caused people to become frightened. Or, "The smell of cookies triggered a craving for dessert."
Importantly, "trigger" is often used in the context of emotional and psychological responses, particularly in relation to trauma. A trigger warning alerts someone that content may contain upsetting material - things like descriptions of violence or abuse - which could bring up strong negative emotions or flashbacks. This usage acknowledges that past experiences can be strongly linked to specific things, causing an involuntary reaction.
Beyond this, "trigger" can also mean the cause or reason for something happening: "The heavy rain was the trigger for the landslide." It's a versatile word describing anything that initiates change, from physical actions to emotional responses and beyond. So, when you hear about a "trigger," remember it's all about what starts something else.
Examples
- 1
Fire alarm
The smell of smoke triggered the fire alarm.
- 2
Conflict
His comment triggered an argument at dinner.
- 3
Medical symptoms
Certain foods can trigger migraines.
- 4
Memories
The photo triggered memories of our old house.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Emotional reaction
She was triggered by a scene in the film.
- Patternbe triggered by + upsetting thing
have a strong emotional reaction because of it
- 6
Medical cause
The doctor asked if stress was a trigger for her headaches.
- 7
Gun safety
Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot.
- 8
Content warning
The article included a trigger warning at the top.
- Phrasetrigger warning
a notice that upsetting content is coming
- 9
Business decision
After months of delay, the company finally pulled the trigger on the deal.
- Phrasepull the trigger on something
make the final decision to do it
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- triggernounverb
Forms
- triggeredpast tenseverbnoun
- triggerspluralnounverb
- triggering-ing formverbnoun