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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