Cat"a*pult (?), n. [L. catapulta, Gr. &?;, prob. from kata` down + &?; to shake, hurl.]

1. (Mil. Antiq.) An engine somewhat resembling a massive crossbow, used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for throwing stones, arrows, spears, etc.

2. A forked stick with elastic band for throwing small stones, etc.

• A device or weapon for throwing objects
  
• A mechanical aid on aircraft carriers designed to help airplanes take off from the flight deck.