triggered

[trig-erd] / ˈtrɪg ərd /

VERB

cause to happen

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bring about cause generate produce prompt provoke set off spark start

STRONG

activate elicit

WEAK

give rise to set in motion

Antonyms

STRONGEST

destroy end halt prevent stop

WEAK

block check

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The conflict triggered a "cold war" as many of the game's major alliances began plotting each other's downfall.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

At the troughs of this structure, there were notable bullish reactions, including a harami in September 2024 and a bullish engulfing candle in April 2025, both of which previously triggered strong upside moves.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

These helper T cells triggered ferroptosis, a form of cell death driven by iron-dependent oxidative stress.

From Science Daily • Jun. 4, 2026

These setbacks have triggered criticism of the Modi government.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

But my hesitancy only triggered something in Czerny that I will forever associate with New Yorkers—an instinctive and immediate push back against thinking small.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama