trigger
[ trig-er ]
/ ˈtrɪg ər /
noun
verb (used with object)
to initiate or precipitate (a chain of events, scientific reaction, psychological process, etc.): Their small protest triggered a mass demonstration.
to fire or explode (a gun, missile, etc.) by pulling a trigger or releasing a triggering device: He accidentally triggered his rifle.
verb (used without object)
to release a trigger.
to become active; activate.
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Idioms for trigger
quick on the trigger, Informal. quick to act or respond; impetuous; alert.
Origin of trigger
OTHER WORDS FROM trigger
un·trig·gered, adjectiveWords nearby trigger
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
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British Dictionary definitions for trigger
trigger
/ (ˈtrɪɡə) /
noun
a small projecting lever that activates the firing mechanism of a firearm
machinery a device that releases a spring-loaded mechanism or a similar arrangement
any event that sets a course of action in motion
verb (tr)
(usually foll by off) to give rise (to); set off
to fire or set in motion by or as by pulling a trigger
Derived forms of trigger
triggered, adjectivetriggerless, adjectiveWord Origin for trigger
C17 tricker, from Dutch trekker, from trekken to pull; see trek
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Idioms and Phrases with trigger
trigger
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.