Definition

A person who uses a gun to shoot someone, often in a planned or criminal way, especially in gang-related activities.

Example

The police arrested the triggerman involved in the recent shooting.

Conversation

Did you read that new crime novel about the triggerman?

No, I haven't heard of it. What's it about?

It's really intense; the story follows a detective trying to catch the triggerman behind a series of murders.

That sounds thrilling! I should definitely check it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Triggerman is formed from "trigger" (from Middle English *triggen*, meaning to pull or activate) and "man" (from Old English *mann*, meaning a person). The word refers to a person who pulls the trigger of a firearm, typically in a criminal context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'activates' ('trigger') a weapon, and the 'man' just means a person. This helps you remember that a triggerman is someone who pulls the trigger.

Visually Confused Words