hair-trigger

1 of 2

adjective

hair-trig·​ger ˈher-ˌtri-gər 

1

: immediately responsive to the slightest stimulus

a hair-trigger temper

2

: delicately adjusted or easily disrupted

hair trigger

2 of 2

noun

: a gun trigger so adjusted as to permit the firearm to be fired by a very slight pressure

Examples of hair-trigger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The real uncertainties in the bond market are lodged in the larger complexities and flammable preconditions resulting from highly leveraged speculative positions set to unwind on a hair-trigger. —George Calhoun, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025

But does the Sandman still have the fire in him to play a hockey player turned golfer powered by his hair-trigger temper? —A.a. Dowd, Vulture, 20 May 2025

Noun

This will see Moscow try to create the impression that their nuclear forces are still on a hair trigger and any further operational successes by Ukraine could lead to all-out war with NATO. —Brendan Cole, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 June 2025

The frantic trading, which sent stocks spiking before plummeting again, showed how investors are operating on a hair trigger and are eager for any sign of encouraging news. —Chris Megerian, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1802, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hair-trigger

• obligor
• outrigger
• bigger
• digger
• jigger
• rigger
• rigor
• trigger
• vigor
• gravedigger

Kids Definition

hair-trigger

adjective

hair-trig·​ger

-ˌtrig-ər

: immediately responsive : quick entry 1 sense 2c

a hair-trigger temper

Etymology

Adjective

from hair trigger, a trigger adjusted so as to permit a firearm to be fired with very slight pressure