trigger
noun
a small projecting tongue in a firearm that, when pressed by the finger, actuates the mechanism that discharges the weapon.
had triggered
-
past perfectof trigger.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
By 2016, it had triggered a bloom of algae, known as ovas, that depleted the water of oxygen and caused the death of thousands of species.
From BBC ● Jun. 27, 2026
It indicated that millions more people were in part-time jobs, doing gig work or in roles they were overqualified for because AI had triggered layoffs of college-educated workers.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 13, 2026
In a country that has continually produced some of the world's biggest music stars, the lineup announcement had triggered a wave of mockery on social media.
From Barron's ● May 28, 2026
Even Guilbeault, a prominent environmental activist before entering politics, acknowledged Carney was in a tough spot, conceding that Trump had triggered "profound disruptions" in Canada's key economic relationship.
From Barron's ● Nov. 28, 2025
Gregor froze every time a pebble moved beneath his foot, thinking he had triggered another rat assault.
From "Gregor the Overlander" by Suzanne Collins
