Meaning & Definition of word "Catapult"
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Catapult
/ˈkætəˌpʌlt/
noun:
- 1. A device for launching an object at high speed, typically used in ancient warfare.
- Example: The soldiers used a catapult to launch heavy stones over the castle walls.
- 2. A strong, flexible structure used by performers to achieve height in acrobatic feats.
- Example: The acrobat was launched into the air by the catapult as part of the circus act.
verb:
- 1. To launch or hurl with force.
- Example: The new technology could catapult us into a new era of transportation.
- 2. To move suddenly or swiftly in a specified direction.
- Example: The car catapulted down the road after the driver hit the gas.
Etymology
From Latin 'catapultae', meaning 'to hurl', from 'cata-' meaning 'down from' and 'pultare' meaning 'to push or strike'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
catapult into:
To suddenly and dramatically increase in status or position.
catapult a career:
To advance one's career significantly and rapidly.
Related Words
projectile:
An object that is thrown or propelled.
tension:
The state of being stretched tight, as in the mechanics of a catapult.
Slang Meanings of catapult
Meaning: To suddenly launch into success or prominence.
Example Sentence: After that viral video, she catapulted to internet fame.
Meaning: To push someone or something into a new situation quickly.
Example Sentence: His actions catapulted him into the spotlight overnight.