trigger
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1trig·ger
noun \ˈtri-gər\Definition of TRIGGER
1
a : a piece (as a lever) connected with a catch or detent as a means of releasing it; especially : the part of the action moved by the finger to fire a gun b : a similar movable part by which a mechanism is actuated <trigger of a spray gun>
2
: something that acts like a mechanical trigger in initiating a process or reaction
— trigger adjective
— trig·gered \-gərd\ adjective
See Origin of TRIGGER
alteration of earlier tricker, from Dutch trekker, from Middle Dutch trecker one that pulls, from trecken to pull — more at trek
First Known Use: 1621
2trigger
verbtrig·geredtrig·ger·ing \ˈtri-g(ə-)riŋ\
Definition of TRIGGER
transitive verb
1
a : to release or activate by means of a trigger; especially : to fire by pulling a mechanical trigger <trigger a rifle> b : to cause the explosion of <trigger a missile with a proximity fuse>
2
: to initiate, actuate, or set off by a trigger <an indiscreet remark that triggered a fight> <a stimulus that triggered a reflex>
intransitive verb
: to release a mechanical trigger
Examples of TRIGGER
- Smoke triggered the fire alarm.
- The timer was set to trigger the bomb in exactly one hour.
- His remarks triggered a public outcry.
- Certain foods trigger his headaches.
- The power outage was triggered by heavy rains.
First Known Use of TRIGGER
1916
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