getriggerd

Getriggerd is a colloquial term used in online discourse to describe someone who becomes emotionally provoked or offended by a statement, action, or situation. The term is a stylized form of get triggered, a phrase that has circulated widely on social media since the 2010s, often used to describe reactions that are perceived as excessive or performative. In German-speaking online communities, getriggerd is used as a loanword or calque, with the spelling reflecting German orthography while preserving the sense of the English phrase.

Usage and connotations: The word functions as both noun and adjective, and can be used attributively as in a getriggerd moment, or in a sentence like “That comment got him getriggerd.” It is typically informal, sometimes humorous, and frequently pejorative, signaling that the speaker regards the reaction as unwarranted or exaggerated. The term is often encountered in discussions about politics, social justice, identity, or online debates where participants claim others are provoked by perceived slights.

Cultural context: Getriggerd is part of a broader meme-lexicon around emotional reactions online, including the classic “Triggered” meme and various reaction images. It is used both to mock overreaction and, at times, to vent genuine frustration. The term can contribute to polarized discourse by framing dissent as irrational or overly sensitive.

Criticism and limitations: Critics argue that the term trivializes real harm and downplays legitimate criticism, while supporters view it as a shorthand for discussing online behavior and emotional responses. As with related terms, its meaning depends on context and the speaker's intent.