catapult

(noun, verb)

noun

1. a plaything consisting of a Y-shaped stick with elastic between the arms; used to propel small stones

Similar word(s): sling, slingshot

Definition categories: man–made, plaything, toy

2. a device that launches aircraft from a warship

Similar word(s): launcher

Definition categories: man–made, device

3. an engine that provided medieval artillery used during sieges; a heavy war engine for hurling large stones and other missiles

Similar word(s): arbalest, arbalist, ballista, bricole, mangonel, onager, trebuchet, trebucket

Definition categories: man–made, engine

verb

1. shoot forth or launch, as if from a catapult

- the enemy catapulted rocks towards the fort

Definition categories: contact, impel, propel

2. hurl as if with a sling

Similar word(s): sling

Definition categories: contact, cast, hurl, hurtle

Sentences with catapult as a verb:

- The candidate selection for running mate has catapulted her to the national scene.

- She catapulted to the national scene following her selection by the candidate.