Cat"a*pult (?), n. [L. catapulta, Gr. , prob. from 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 elasti band for throwing small stones, etc.
© Webster 1913.