Trigger (Verb)
Meaning 1
Release or pull the trigger on; "Trigger a gun".
Classification
Verbs of fighting, athletic activities.
Examples
- She hesitated for a moment before deciding to trigger the alarm in case of an emergency.
- The military officer gave the command to trigger the rocket launch sequence.
- It was a tense standoff as the officer waited for the hostage-taker to trigger his gun.
- The eager child couldn't wait to trigger the piñata and see the candy spill out.
- The police sniper was trained to remain calm before deciding to trigger his rifle.
Related Words
Meaning 2
Put in motion or move to act; "trigger a reaction"; "actuate the circuits".
Classification
Verbs of sewing, baking, painting, performing.
Examples
- The politician's impassioned speech was enough to trigger a wave of protests across the country.
- The sudden move was likely to trigger an investigation into the company's financial dealings.
- Smoking can trigger a range of serious health problems, including heart disease and cancer.
- The fire alarm was set to trigger the sprinkler system in the event of a fire.
- A single careless comment can trigger a heated argument that may be difficult to resolve.