Find Synonyms

catapult Synonyms

Another word for catapult

Choosing another word for catapult depends on context, so the 22 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 5 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To move or thrust quickly and suddenly into a new position or state, especially into prominence or success.

Usage Example

"Her viral online performance catapulted her to international stardom almost overnight."

Strongest
propel
launch
Strong
skyrocket
rocket
thrust
boost
elevate

• noun (Context 2)

A large ancient or medieval military machine designed to hurl heavy stones, arrows, or other projectiles over long distances.

Usage Example

"The ancient army constructed a massive trebuchet to breach the fortress walls during the protracted siege."

Strong
trebuchet
ballista
mangonel
onager

• verb (Context 3)

To hurl, launch, or shoot forcefully in a specified direction.

Usage Example

"The sudden impact of the collision catapulted the driver from the vehicle."

Strongest
hurl
launch
Strong
fling
propel
project
sling
heave
pitch
cast
shoot

• noun (Context 4)

A small, hand-held device with an elastic band used for shooting small projectiles.

Usage Example

"The young boy aimed his slingshot at the empty tin cans lined up on the garden fence."

Strongest
slingshot
Weak
peashooter

• noun (Context 5)

A mechanical device used for launching aircraft at high speed from the deck of a naval carrier ship.

Usage Example

"The steam launcher rapidly accelerated the jet fighter, allowing it to take off from the short runway of the aircraft carrier."

Strong
launcher

Opposites of catapult

The opposite of catapult shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

arresting gear
catch
relegate
demote
hold back
retain
See all opposites of catapult

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Catapult. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/catapult
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