trigger
TRIG-er
/ˈtrɪɡ.ɚ/
A stimulus that sets off a sudden psychological reaction or recall of past traumatic memories.
Refers to a specific sensory input that involuntarily unlocks intense emotional responses.
The story behind the word. Originating in the 17th century from Dutch 'trekker' (a puller, from the mechanism of a firearm), the term moved from firearms to mechanics and finally into 20th-century psychology to mean an input that instantly releases accumulated tension.
Word relationships
- catalyst: A catalyst precipitates an event generally; a trigger specifically sets off a pre-existing response mechanism.
- stimulus: Stimulus is any sensory input; trigger carries a strong implication of immediate, reactive consequence.
- soother: Something that calms or reduces psychological reactivity.
Commonly confused with
- cause: A cause creates a condition; a trigger activates a condition that already exists.
Word family
- triggered (adjective): Experiencing an intense emotional reaction due to a specific stimulus.
Collocations
- emotional trigger
- identify triggers
- trigger a response
- trauma trigger
Example sentences
- "A sudden loud noise acted as a trigger, instantly reviving memories of the explosion." Psychology
Memory hook
Pulling a TRIGGER releases built-up pressure instantly. Instant psychological reaction.
When not to use
Avoid using casually for mild annoyances or simple disagreements.
Fun facts
- The psychological usage of trigger gained widespread prominence during late 20th-century studies on combat veterans.
Related words
Also appears in
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