Crossword Genius

Too eager to square with sailor at times in good spirits (7-5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

trigger-happy

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'too eager' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are adjectives. Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'square with sailor at times in good spirits' is the wordplay.
'square' becomes 'T' (a T-Square is a technical drawing instrument).
'with' says to put letters next to each other.
'sailor at times' becomes 'rigger' (I've seen this in another clue).
'in good spirits' becomes 'happy' (I've seen this in another clue).
't'+'rigger'+'happy'='TRIGGER-HAPPY'

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for trigger-happy that I've seen before include "inclined to recklessness" , "Irresponsible with firearms" , "Over-enthusiastic with a gun" , "enjoying shooting" , "Over-ready to shoot" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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