triggered
Triggered (adj) means set off or activated by a specific condition. Example: “The alarm is triggered by any movement in the room.”
How to Use Triggered
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSet off by something — either a mechanism activating, or, informally, a person getting upset.
The "got angry" sense is informal and often used sarcastically online.
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The alarm is _____ by any movement in the room.
Related Words
Rhymes for triggered
See all rhymes for triggered →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “triggered” mean?
The word “triggered” means set off or activated by a specific condition. In plain terms, set off by something — either a mechanism activating, or, informally, a person getting upset.
How do you use “triggered” in a sentence?
Here is “triggered” used in a sentence: “The alarm is triggered by any movement in the room.”
What part of speech is “triggered”?
“Triggered” is an adjective.
Is “triggered” a common word?
“Triggered” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “triggered” have?
“Triggered” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: set off or activated by a specific condition.
Is it insensitive to say "triggered" as a joke?
It can be. As internet slang, "triggered" is often used mockingly to dismiss someone's reaction as an overreaction, and many people find this insensitive because the word also has a serious use connected with trauma. In technical or clinical contexts, the word is neutral and appropriate.
What is the difference between triggered and offended?
Offended means displeased or insulted by something you judge disrespectful or improper. Triggered means set off into an emotional reaction, and it suggests an automatic response to a specific prompt rather than a considered judgement about whether something was rude.