(noun)
in historical usage, a machine used to hurl large stones or other missiles, operated by ropes and a lever in military settings;
e.g. The soldiers used a catapult to hurl boulders onto the enemy camp.
(noun)
a device that is used for launching air crafts (especially gliders) into the air at flying speed, especially from a ship such as an aircraft carrier;
e.g. The wheel of the plane got caught in the catapult.
(verb)
to move very quickly or suddenly as though shot from a catapult, or to launch or hurl something;
e.g. He bounced onto the bed, only to catapult off due to the springs.