Trigger/ˈtrɪɡər/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Literal Action Refers to the physical action of using a gun. He hesitated before finally pulling the trigger. Pro Tip 2/3Violent Connotation Often associated with violence or danger in stories and news. The hero cautiously reached for the trigger. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorically Applied Used metaphorically to mean starting an irreversible action. By signing the deal, she had pulled the trigger on her new venture.