HAIRTRIGGER Meaning and
Definition
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Hairtrigger is an adjective that describes something as extremely sensitive, quick, or reactive, particularly in terms of response or reaction to a stimulus. The term is often used to describe a person or situation that easily becomes agitated or easily provoked, exhibiting little patience or tolerance before reacting.
In a literal sense, hairtrigger refers to a gun mechanism that requires only a very slight amount of pressure to release the firing pin. This mechanism is designed to enable an immediate response or rapid firing of the gun. By extension, the term hairtrigger is used figuratively to convey a sense of extreme sensitivity or responsiveness that is quick and almost instantaneous.
When applied to a person, hairtrigger may describe an individual who is easily provoked or prone to overreacting. Such an individual may respond swiftly and forcefully to perceived slights or offenses, without considering alternative explanations or taking the time to calm down and assess the situation more objectively. Similarly, a situation described as hairtrigger may involve circumstances that can easily escalate, leading to high tension or volatile outcomes, as well as requiring careful handling to avoid provoking an undesired response.
Overall, hairtrigger denotes a heightened level of sensitivity, impulsiveness, or reactivity, implying a tendency to react immediately and intensely to external stimuli or triggers, with little margin for patience or delay.
Common Misspellings for HAIRTRIGGER
- hairtrigcer
- hairtrigeer
- hairtriggur
- hairtriggmr
- hairtriggar
- hairtrigggr
- hairtrigge2
- hairtriggeb
- hairtriggez
- hairtriggev
- hairtriggep
- hairtrigges
- h airtrigger
- ha irtrigger
- hairtr igger
- hairtri gger
- hairtrig ger
- hairtrigg er
- hairtrigge r
Etymology of HAIRTRIGGER
The word "hairtrigger" is a compound word that combines "hair" and "trigger".
The term "hair" in this context refers to a fine strand of hair, which is used figuratively to describe something very delicate, sensitive, or requiring precision.
The word "trigger" refers to the mechanism that releases or activates a device, often associated with firearms. A hair trigger is a trigger mechanism set to release with the slightest amount of pressure, meaning it is very sensitive.
The term "hairtrigger" is believed to have originated in the late 18th or early 19th century, emerging from the combination of these two words. Its etymology reflects the idea of a trigger that is so sensitive that it can be activated by the weight of a single hair.
