adj
Common
triggered
Triggered (adj) means Set off or activated by a specific condition. Example: “The security light is triggered whenever someone walks up the path.”
adj
1
Set off or activated by a specific condition.
"The security light is triggered whenever someone walks up the path."
"This email is triggered automatically when a customer places an order."
"The alarm is triggered by any movement in the room."
2
Informal: upset or provoked emotionally.
"She felt triggered when the film showed a scene that reminded her of a bad time."
"I was a bit triggered by his sarcastic tone, so I left the room."
"He got triggered by a single critical comment."
How to use triggered
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSet off by something — either a mechanism activating, or, informally, a person getting upset.
When to use it
The "got angry" sense is informal and often used sarcastically online.
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The security light is _____ whenever someone walks up the path.
Synonyms
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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.
