How Do You Spell HAIR-TRIGGER?

Pronunciation: [hˈe͡ətɹˈɪɡə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "hair-trigger" is quite unique. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be written as /hɛr ˈtrɪɡər/. The spelling of "hair" is pronounced differently than the typical word, with an "e" sound instead of the typical "a" sound. The hyphen is necessary when combining the two words, as "hair-trigger" is a compound adjective used to describe something that is easily set off or triggered. The quirky spelling of this word adds to its distinctiveness and memorability.

HAIR-TRIGGER Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "hair-trigger" is often used to describe something or someone that is extremely sensitive, reactive, or quick to respond. In its literal sense, it refers to a firearm mechanism that requires very little pressure to discharge. However, it has also taken on a figurative meaning in popular usage.

    When used to describe a person, a hair-trigger individual is highly responsive and tends to react quickly, sometimes even with minimal provocation. They may have an instant response to a given situation or may be easily agitated or irritated. A hair-trigger person is often characterized by being excitable, easily provoked, or having a short fuse.

    The term can also be applied to various situations, actions, or devices that exhibit a hair-trigger characteristic. For example, a hair-trigger alarm system is one that is highly sensitive and can be set off by even the slightest disturbance or movement. Similarly, a hair-trigger negotiation refers to a process where discussions can quickly escalate or derail due to the sensitivity of the topics being discussed or the individuals involved.

    In a broader context, hair-trigger can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that is delicate or easily perturbed. It conveys a sense of hypersensitivity, fragility, or delicacy, highlighting the potential for rapid and intense reactions or consequences.

Common Misspellings for HAIR-TRIGGER

  • gair-trigger
  • bair-trigger
  • nair-trigger
  • jair-trigger
  • uair-trigger
  • yair-trigger
  • hzir-trigger
  • hsir-trigger
  • hwir-trigger
  • hqir-trigger
  • haur-trigger
  • hajr-trigger
  • hakr-trigger
  • haor-trigger
  • ha9r-trigger
  • ha8r-trigger
  • haie-trigger
  • haid-trigger
  • haif-trigger
  • hait-trigger

Etymology of HAIR-TRIGGER

The word "hair-trigger" originated in the 18th century and is a compound resulting from the combination of two other words: "hair" and "trigger".

The word "hair" refers to a single strand of human hair, which is incredibly thin and delicate. In this context, it symbolizes something very sensitive or easily disturbed.

The word "trigger" originally comes from the Old English word "triggian", which means to pull or draw. It refers to the mechanism of a firearm by which pulling a lever releases the firing mechanism. A "hair-trigger" is specifically a type of trigger that is extremely sensitive with very little force or pressure required to cause it to fire.

Therefore, the term "hair-trigger" is figuratively used to describe something or someone that is extremely reactive, sensitive, or easily set off, just like a firearm with a sensitive trigger.

Similar spelling words for HAIR-TRIGGER

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