1. ancient military machines used to hurl stones or other projectiles
Usage: historical
2. devices that launch aircraft from the deck of a ship
Usage: nautical; military
3. Y-shaped sticks with elastic bands used to shoot small objects

1. launches or hurls something with great force
2. causes someone to achieve sudden success or prominence
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The ancient Romans used catapults to break down castle walls.
• Aircraft carriers use steam catapults to launch fighter jets.
• The children made catapults from tree branches and rubber bands.
• The pitcher catapults the ball toward home plate.
• Her viral video catapults her to internet fame.
• The medieval army positioned catapults outside the fortress.
• The new policy catapults the company ahead of its competitors.