Triggering
ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsCausing a physical or emotional reaction; initiating a process or event.
ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ
Causing a physical or emotional reaction.
The sudden loud noise triggered a feeling of anxiety.
💡 Simply: Imagine something unexpected like a loud noise suddenly causing a reaction, like jumping or feeling scared. That 'something' is *triggering* you.
👶 For kids: Like when something makes you feel a certain way, like sad or happy.
More Examples
Seeing the photograph triggered a flood of memories.
The news article was designed to be triggering to the readers.
How It's Used
"The movie's violent scenes were triggering for some viewers who had experienced trauma."
"A sensor is triggering the alarm system when motion is detected."
Initiating or causing a process, action, or event.
ˈtrɪɡərɪŋ
Initiating a process or event.
The accident triggered a massive traffic jam.
💡 Simply: When you push a button, the button *triggers* an event, like turning on the lights.
👶 For kids: Making something happen or start.
More Examples
The new policy is designed to trigger economic growth.
The software bug triggered an error message.
How It's Used
"The signal is triggering the release of the latch."
"A specific event is triggering an automated response in the software."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From "trigger" (to release a mechanism), and influenced by its psychological usage. The word's usage expanded significantly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, particularly in contexts related to trauma and emotional reactions.
The word 'trigger' existed previously in technical contexts, but its contemporary usage relating to emotional or psychological responses emerged in the late 20th century, with increased prominence in online and social contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a gun's trigger. Pulling it causes an immediate action/reaction.
Word Origin
"to pull or draw"