triggered
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈtrɪɡərd/
KK: /ˈtrɪɡərd/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that has been activated or caused to happen by a specific event or condition.
Example
The triggered alarm went off when the door was opened.
Conversation
I noticed that my anxiety gets really triggered when I watch horror movies.
That makes sense, they can be quite intense.
Yeah, I didn’t realize it until I watched one last night.
Maybe stick to comedies for a while, then!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
activated
responsive
sensitive
Antonyms
unresponsive
inactive
calm
verb
Definition
To cause something to happen or to start an action.
Example
The loud noise triggered a response from the emergency services.
Tense Forms
Past: triggered
Past Participle: triggered
Conversation
I was watching that new horror movie last night, and it really triggered my anxiety.
Oh no, I can't handle scary movies at all!
Yeah, I usually love them, but this one just triggered something in me.
Root Explanation
Triggered → It is formed from "trigger" (from Middle English *triggen*, meaning to pull or to set off) and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past action or state). The word "triggered" means having been set off or activated by a specific event or action.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'set off' or 'pulled' into action — that's why 'triggered' means something has been activated.
Visually Confused Words
outriggered
tigger
tiered
rigger