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Webster 1913 Edition


Trigger

Trig′ger

,
Noun.
[For older
tricker
, from D.
trekker
, fr.
trekken
to draw, pull. See
Trick
,
Noun.
]
1.
A catch to hold the wheel of a carriage on a declivity.
2.
(Mech.)
A piece, as a lever, which is connected with a catch or detent as a means of releasing it; especially
(Firearms)
, the part of a lock which is moved by the finger to release the cock and discharge the piece.
Trigger fish
(Zool.)
,
a large plectognath fish (
Balistes Carolinensis
or
Balistes capriscus
) common on the southern coast of the United States, and valued as a food fish in some localities. Its rough skin is used for scouring and polishing in the place of sandpaper. Called also
leather jacket
, and
turbot
.

Webster 1828 Edition


Trigger

TRIG'GER

, n.
1.
A catch to hold the wheel of a carriage on a declivity.
2.
The catch of a musket or pistol; the part which being pulled, looses the lock for striking fire.