Caused an emotional reaction, often a strong one, or activated a mechanism by a small action (like pulling a trigger on a gun).
From 'trigger,' which came from Dutch 'trekker' (puller) in the 1600s. Originally referred to the lever on a gun that releases the firing mechanism. By the 2000s, it evolved to describe emotional responses being set off by reminders.
The word completely changed meaning in the 2010s! It used to only mean 'activated something,' but now it's primarily used to describe getting emotionally upset—sometimes mockingly. This shows how internet culture and social media can rapidly reshape what words mean.
Colloquially weaponized against women and marginalized groups as shorthand for 'emotional/irrational reaction,' dismissing legitimate trauma responses. Roots in valid psychology of PTSD.
Use clinically: 'triggered by loud sounds' or 'triggered traumatic memories.' Avoid as mockery of emotional response.
["activated","prompted","recalled"]
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