catapult
UK: /ˈkætəpʌlt/ | US: /ˈkætəpʌlt/
n. 1. A military device used in ancient times to hurl large stones or other projectiles.
n. 2. A mechanical device for launching aircraft from the deck of a ship.
vt. 1. To propel or launch something with force.
The word "catapult" originates from the Greek katapeltēs, combining kata (down, against) and pallō (to drive or hurl). The term originally referred to ancient siege engines designed to throw projectiles with great force. Over time, it evolved to include modern mechanical launchers, such as those used on aircraft carriers. The morphemes reflect the action of forcefully driving something downward or forward.
The Romans used a catapult to breach the city walls.
The aircraft was launched from the deck using a steam-powered catapult.
The sudden news catapulted her to fame overnight.
Medieval armies relied on catapults for long-range attacks.
The engineer designed a miniature catapult for the physics experiment.