catapult

• 名词，指用来发射或抛掷物体的装置或机械，例如投掷石块的弹弓、从军舰上弹射飞机的装置，或中世纪用于抛射大型弹丸的攻城器械。

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.

   弹弓

   • 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.

   同义词slingshot

2. Aircraft launcherB2formaltechnical

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

   飞机弹射器

   • 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.

   投石机

   • 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.

   同义词ballistamangonelonagertrebuchet

• 动词，表示用力发射、弹射或推动某物，也指突然使某人进入某种处境或状态。

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.

   弹射

   • 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.

   同义词flinghurllaunchlobprojectpropelshootsling

2. Hurl or throwB2informal

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

   猛掷

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

   同义词castflinghurllaunchlobpitchpropelslingthrowtoss