trigger
//ˈtrɪɡər//
Noun
triggerSingular
triggersPlural
1
A small lever on a gun that is pulled to fire it.
He placed his finger on the trigger of the gun.
2
An event or situation that causes something else to happen or begin.
The economic crisis was the trigger for major political changes.
Synonym
Verb
triggerInfinitive
triggerPresent tense
triggeredPast tense
triggeredPast participle
triggeringPresent participle
triggersThird-person singular
1
To cause something to start or happen, especially a reaction or series of events.
The news triggered a wave of protests across the country.
2
To cause an emotional or psychological response, often negative.
The loud noise triggered her anxiety.