ETYM Latin catapulta, Greek, prob. from kata down + pallein to shake, hurl.
1. Y-shaped stick with elastic between the arms; used to propel small stones; SYN. sling, slingshot.
2. An ancient heavy war engine for hurling large stones; SYN. bricole, onager.
3. Launches aircraft from a warship; SYN. launcher.

To shoot forth or launch, as if from a catapult.