I used to have a chuckle every time I heard the word "detente" in contexts such as "politics of detente." Word-A-Day correctly points out that the word comes from French détente meaning loosening, relaxation.

Yet détente is often used as a synonym for trigger. "Avoir le doigt sur la détente" for instance means "to have a finger on the trigger." Détente is, I believe, more often used in that context than its synonym "gachette."

Now that you know, try replacing the word "detente" with "trigger" next time you see it used in the news. You too may get a chuckle or two.

Avoir le doigt sur la détente Hmm--I wonder if it's because the trigger is the means by which the bullet is loosed?

Anyway--welcome, Jacques!