Trig"ger (?), n. [For older tricker, from D. trekker, fr. trekken to draw, pull. See Trick, n.]
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 B. 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 1913.