Catching Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• Catching light waves is crucial in photosynthesis, where plants convert sunlight into energy.
• The concept of catching can apply to physics; it's related to how we understand acceleration and impact when objects collide.
• In biology, catching viruses can relate to how they spread or infect host cells.

Cultural References

• In sports, catching is a vital skill, as seen in baseball or football, where players must successfully intercept fast-moving balls.
• The phrase 'catching feelings' is popular in modern language, signifying developing emotions for someone.
• TV shows and movies often depict 'catching' as a dramatic moment, such as catching a loved one in a fall or catching a key plot twist.

Psychology

• Catchphrases can be incredibly effective in marketing; a simple, catchy slogan can influence buying behavior.
• The concept of 'catching' emotions helps explain how feelings can quickly spread between people, known as emotional contagion.
• In therapy, ‘catching’ negative thoughts and reframing them can lead to better emotional health.

Education

• Teachers often use 'catching students’ attention' as a strategy to enhance learning and engagement in the classroom.
• Classroom activities like catching words or letters can aid in developing literacy skills among young learners.
• The game of catch is frequently used as a fun activity to promote physical coordination and teamwork in physical education.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Old Norse term 'kappa', which means 'to capture' or 'to seize'.
• In English, it has been used since the 13th century to denote grabbing or taking hold of something.
• The sense of 'catching' as in 'to become popular' emerged in the early 20th century.

The word 'catching' originated from the Middle English word 'cacchen', which in turn came from the Old North French word 'cachier' meaning 'to chase, capture'. The verb form has been used since the 12th century, while the noun form has been in use since the 14th century. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings related to capturing or holding onto something.

See also: catch, catcher, catchphrase, catchy.

At #7,326 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

• ...
• 7323 swift
• 7324 sore
• 7325 burdens
• 7326 catching
• 7327 rupture
• 7328 demographic
• 7329 sustaining
• ...