Trigger facts for kids

The word trigger has many different meanings, depending on what you are talking about. It often refers to something that starts an action or causes a reaction. Think of it as a button or a signal that makes something else happen.

What Does "Trigger" Mean?

A trigger can be a small part of a machine, like the one you pull on a toy dart gun to make it shoot. It can also be an event or a feeling that causes a strong reaction in a person. Understanding the different ways "trigger" is used helps us make sense of many things around us.

Trigger in Technology

In technology, a trigger is often a part that starts a process.

• Firearms: On a firearm, the trigger is a lever that you pull. When pulled, it makes the gun fire. It's the part that starts the action of shooting.
• Electronic Music: A trigger pad is a device used in electronic music. When you hit it, it sends a signal to a computer or sound module. This signal then plays a specific sound, like a drum beat.

Trigger in Everyday Life

In psychology and ethology (the study of animal behavior), a trigger is something that causes a specific reaction or behavior.

• Events and Responses: A trigger can be an event that starts other events. It can also be something that makes a person or animal have a certain response. For example, a certain smell might trigger a memory, or a loud noise might trigger a jump. This is similar to a releaser, which is a signal that causes an instinctive behavior in animals.

Famous "Triggers"

Some famous things have been named "Trigger."

• Famous Horse: Trigger was a very famous horse. He was owned by the well-known cowboy movie star Roy Rogers. Trigger was known for his intelligence and was featured in many films.
• Famous Guitar: Trigger is also the name of a special guitar. It's a Martin N-20 guitar that belongs to the famous musician Willie Nelson. He has played this guitar for many years.
• Submarines: Two submarines in the United States Navy were named Trigger. They were the USS Trigger (SS-237) and the USS Trigger (SS-564).
• TV Character: Trigger is a fictional character. He appeared in the popular British TV show Only Fools and Horses.

Trigger in Music

The word "Trigger" has also been used in music.

• Music Album: Trigger is the name of an EP (a short music album). It was released by a Swedish band called In Flames.
• Song Title: There is also a song named "Trigger." It was a bonus track by the band The Rasmus on their 2005 album Hide from the Sun.