trigger

/ˈtɹɪɡə//ˈtɹɪɡɚ/

noun

1
A finger-operated lever used to fire a gun.
“Just pull the trigger.”
2
A similar device used to activate any mechanism.
3
An event that initiates others, or incites a response.
“Sleeping in an unfamiliar room can be a trigger for sleepwalking.”
4
A concept or image that upsets somebody.
“I can't watch that violent film. Blood is one of my triggers.”
5
An event, experience or other stimulus that initiates a traumatic memory or action in a person.
6
An electronic transducer allowing a drum, cymbal, etc. to control an electronic drum unit or similar device.
7
A device that manually lengthens (or sometimes shortens) the slide or tubing of a brass instrument, allowing the pitch range to be altered while playing.
8
A pulse in an electronic circuit that initiates some component.
9
An SQL procedure that may be initiated when a record is inserted, updated or deleted; typically used to maintain referential integrity.
10
A text string that, when received by a player, will cause the player to execute a certain command.
11
A catch to hold the wheel of a carriage on a declivity.

1
To fire a weapon.
2
To initiate something.
“The controversial article triggered a deluge of angry letters from readers.”
3
To spark a response, especially a negative emotional response, in (someone).
“This story contains a rape scene and may be triggering for rape victims.”
4
To activate; to become active.

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