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Trigger facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

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.
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Trigger Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.