Langimage
English

trigger

|trig/ger|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈtrɪɡər/

🇬🇧

/ˈtrɪɡə/

cause to happen

Etymology
Etymology Information

'trigger' originates from Dutch, specifically the word 'trekker,' where 'trekken' meant 'to pull.'

Historical Evolution

'trekker' transformed into the English word 'trigger' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to pull or draw,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to cause an event or situation to happen.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a small device that releases a spring or catch and so sets off a mechanism, especially in order to fire a gun.

He pulled the trigger of the gun.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to cause (an event or situation) to happen or exist.

The news triggered a panic in the market.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40