catapult

• Nom désignant un engin ou un mécanisme servant à lancer ou à projeter des objets, par exemple une arme de jet pour lancer des pierres, un dispositif pour catapulter des avions depuis un navire de guerre, ou une machine de siège médiévale lançant de gros projectiles.

A noun referring to a device or mechanism used to launch or hurl objects, such as a Y-shaped stick with elastic for small stones, a mechanism for launching aircraft from a warship, or a medieval siege engine for throwing large projectiles.

1. SlingshotA2informalbritish

   A toy weapon made from a Y-shaped frame with an elastic band, used for shooting small objects like stones.

   Lance-pierre

   • The boy used a catapult to shoot pebbles at a tin can.
   • He made a catapult from a forked branch and rubber bands.
   • Children used to play with catapults in the park.

   Synonymesslingshot

2. Aircraft launcherB2formaltechnical

   A mechanical device on a warship that launches aircraft into the air, providing the necessary speed for takeoff.

   Catapulte

   • The fighter jet was launched from the carrier using a steam catapult.
   • Modern aircraft carriers use electromagnetic catapults for launching planes.
   • The catapult system allowed the plane to take off from the short deck.

3. Medieval siege engineB2formal

   A large, ancient weapon used in warfare to hurl heavy stones, projectiles, or other missiles at enemy fortifications.

   engin de siège médiéval

   • The army used a catapult to break down the castle walls.
   • Medieval catapults could launch stones weighing hundreds of pounds.
   • The siege ended when the catapult destroyed the city gate.

   Synonymesballistamangonelonagertrebuchet

• Verbe utilisé pour désigner l'action de lancer ou de propulser quelque chose avec force, ou de se retrouver soudainement dans une situation ou une position donnée.

A verb used to indicate the act of launching or propelling something with force, or being suddenly thrown into a particular situation or position.

1. Launch or shoot forthB2formal

   To shoot or launch something forward with great force, as if from a catapult.

   Lancer ou projeter avec force

   • The machine catapulted the ball across the field.
   • He was catapulted into the air by the explosion.
   • The new technology catapulted the company to success.

   Synonymesflinghurllaunchlobprojectpropelshootsling

2. Hurl or throwB2informal

   To throw something with a sudden, forceful motion, similar to using a sling.

   Lancer violemment

   • She catapulted the stone into the river.
   • The strong wind catapulted the hat off his head.
   • He catapulted the ball to his teammate.

   Synonymescastflinghurllaunchlobpitchpropelslingthrowtoss