trigger word: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No, while its most prominent modern use is in psychological and social contexts relating to trauma or strong emotional responses, it has a neutral technical meaning in computing and marketing, referring to any keyword that activates a process.

A 'trigger' is any stimulus (a sound, smell, sight, situation, or word) that causes a reaction. A 'trigger word' is specifically a linguistic stimulus—a word or phrase—that acts as a trigger.

It is widely used, but sensitivity is advised. In casual conversation, using it flippantly (e.g., for minor annoyances) can trivialise the serious experiences of people with PTSD or trauma. It's best used with appropriate context and consideration.

They are related but distinct. A 'content warning' alerts audiences to potentially upsetting material (e.g., violence, flashing lights). A 'trigger warning' is a specific type of content warning intended to help those with PTSD, trauma, or phobias avoid exposure to specific triggers (like a trigger word or detailed description) that could cause a severe psychological or physical reaction.

A specific word or phrase that initiates a powerful and often emotional or psychological response, typically due to its association with past trauma, sensitive issues, or programmed reactions.

Trigger word is usually formal, academic, technical, journalistic, informal (in therapeutic/online contexts) in register.

Trigger word: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtrɪɡ.ə ˌwɜːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtrɪɡ.ɚ ˌwɝːd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.