hair-trigger
/hɛrˈtrɪɡər/
NOUN
1. A firearm trigger requiring very little pressure
A trigger mechanism that releases a firearm with only a slight amount of pressure.
1.1. Sensitive firearm triggers
A firearm trigger designed to activate with minimal pressure, allowing the weapon to discharge with very little movement.
Synonyms
- sensitive trigger
- light trigger
Examples
- The competition rifle was fitted with a hair-trigger that required only slight pressure to activate.
- The technician carefully inspected the firearm's hair-trigger mechanism.
Related Words
- trigger mechanism
- trigger pull
- firearm mechanism
ADJECTIVE
2. Easily provoked or quick to react
Having an extremely sensitive or easily provoked temperament, especially one characterized by sudden anger or emotional reactions.
2.1. Irritability and a short temper
Describes someone who becomes angry, upset, or emotionally reactive very easily, often in response to minor provocations.
Synonyms
- touchy
- oversensitive
- hypersensitive
- supersensitive
- volatile
- quick-tempered
- irritable
- short-tempered
- testy
- prickly
Antonyms
Examples
- His hair-trigger temper made even minor disagreements difficult to handle.
- She avoided criticizing him because of his hair-trigger reactions.
Related Words
- temperamental
- impulsive
- reactive
- irascible
- fretful
2.2. Extreme sensitivity and immediate responsiveness
Describes a person, reaction, or mechanism that responds instantly to the slightest stimulus or change.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The security system had a hair-trigger response to even the slightest movement.
- His hair-trigger awareness allowed him to notice subtle changes in the environment.
Related Words
2.3. Unstable and easily triggered situations
Describes a situation or condition so delicate or unstable that even a small disturbance can cause a sudden or serious change.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The political situation was hair-trigger, with even a minor disagreement threatening to escalate.
- The negotiations took place in a hair-trigger environment where a single mistake could undermine the agreement.