Trigger

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈtɹɪɡə/
• Rhymes: -ɪɡə(r)

Origin

Originally tricker, from Dutch trekker ("pull", noun, as in "drawer-pull", "bell-pull".), from trekken ("to drag, draw, pull").

Full definition of trigger

Noun

1. A finger-operated lever used to fire a gun.Just pull the trigger.
2. A similar device used to activate any mechanism.
3. An event that initiates others, or incites a response.
4. (psychology) An event, experience or other stimulus that initiates a traumatic memory or action in a person.
5. (electronics) A pulse in an electronic circuit that initiates some component.
6. (computing) An SQL procedure that may be initiated when a record is inserted, updated or deleted; typically used to maintain referential integrity.
7. (online gaming) A text string that, when received by a player, will cause the player to execute a certain command.
8. (archaic) A catch to hold the wheel of a carriage on a declivity.

Derived terms

• trigger-happy
• trigger point
• trigger warning

Verb

1. (transitive) to fire a weapon
2. (transitive) to initiate something
3. (transitive) to spark a response, especially a negative emotional response, in (someone)This story contains a rape scene and may be triggering for rape victims.