detonator / igniter
Loading your saved state.
detonator / igniter
A technical component that triggers an explosion, combustion, or another chemical reaction, for example in a bomb, an airbag, or fireworks.
Der Bombenentschärfer musste zuerst den Zünder deaktivieren.
The bomb disposal expert first had to deactivate the detonator.
'Der Zünder' (the detonator/igniter) is derived from the verb 'zünden' (to ignite something, to trigger an explosion). The ending '-er' here indicates the device that performs the action of igniting.
Ein Funke genügte, um das Gasgemisch zu zünden.
A spark was enough to ignite the gas mixture.
When the context is bombs, explosives, fireworks, or airbags, this meaning is always intended. Typical verbs in this context are 'entschärfen' (to defuse), 'auslösen' (to trigger), and 'aktivieren' (to activate).
Der Experte konnte den Zünder der alten Fliegerbombe sicher entschärfen.
The expert was able to safely defuse the detonator of the old aerial bomb.
Common combinations are 'ein chemischer Zünder' (a chemical detonator), 'ein elektrischer Zünder' (an electric detonator), and 'ein Zeitzünder' (a time detonator/time fuse), which describe the type of triggering mechanism.
Die Bombe war mit einem Zeitzünder ausgestattet.
The bomb was equipped with a time detonator.
This meaning is used in the context of engines and vehicles. If a car, moped, or lawn mower doesn't start, the igniter could be the problem.
Der Mechaniker prüft, ob der Zünder noch funktioniert.
The mechanic is checking whether the igniter still works.
trigger
'der Auslöser' and 'der Zünder' can both refer to something that starts a process. But 'Auslöser' is much more general: it can be a cause, a reason, or a technical mechanism. 'Zünder' is much more specific and belongs to technology, fireworks, engines, combustion, or explosions. Learners may confuse the words because a 'Zünder' is also a kind of 'Auslöser'. But not every 'Auslöser' is a 'Zünder'. If it is not about igniting, burning, or an explosion, 'Auslöser' fits better.
Beim Feuerwerk darf der Zünder erst kurz vor dem Start angeschlossen werden.
With fireworks, the igniter may only be connected shortly before launch.
Der Auslöser für die Beschwerde war eine falsche Rechnung.
The trigger for the complaint was an incorrect invoice.