Trigger Definition
trĭgər
triggered, triggering, triggers
noun
triggers
A small lever or part which when pulled or pressed releases a catch, spring, etc.
Webster's New World
In firearms, a small lever pressed back by the finger to activate the firing mechanism.
Webster's New World
A similar device used to release or activate a mechanism.
American Heritage
An event that precipitates other events.
American Heritage
An act, impulse, etc. that initiates an action, series of events, etc.
Webster's New World
Synonyms:
verb
triggered, triggering, triggers
To fire or activate by pulling or pressing a trigger.
Webster's New World
To initiate (an action); set off.
The fight that triggered the riot.
Webster's New World
To fire a weapon.
Wiktionary
To induce a powerful emotional reaction in, especially by evoking memories of past trauma.
American Heritage Medicine
Synonyms:
idiom
quick on the trigger
- quick to fire a gun
- quick to act, understand, retort, etc.
Webster's New World
Idioms, Phrasal Verbs Related to Trigger
- quick on the trigger
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