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catapulte

catapult

noun kah-tah-PEWLT Rare

Origin: From Greek 'katapeltes' via Latin 'catapulta'.

Usage Note

Catapulte refers to the ancient siege weapon as well as modern aircraft carrier launch mechanisms — both use the same word in French. The verb catapulter means to catapult or to propel suddenly, and figuratively être catapulté means to be thrust unexpectedly into a role or position, a common journalistic use.

Examples

"Les soldats utilisaient une catapulte pour lancer des pierres."

Natural Translation

The soldiers used a catapult to hurl stones.

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