Definition

1. Noun:
   • A handheld projectile weapon: A slingshot is a simple device, typically consisting of a Y-shaped frame with two elastic bands (like rubber strips) attached to the uprights. A small pouch in the center of the bands holds a projectile (e.g., a small stone). The user pulls the pouch back, stretches the elastic, and releases it to launch the projectile.

Usage

• As a common noun: Used to refer to the object itself.
  • He made a slingshot from a forked stick and a rubber band.
  • Using a slingshot requires good aim and practice.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphorical use for rapid launch: Can describe something that propels or launches an object or person with great force or speed.
  • The new marketing campaign acted as a slingshot for the product's popularity.
• In physics/mechanics context: Informally used to describe a mechanism that stores elastic potential energy for release as kinetic energy.

Variants and Related Words

• Catapult (noun, chiefly British): A synonym for a handheld slingshot. (Note: In American English, "catapult" more commonly refers to a larger, historical siege engine.)
• Shooter (noun, informal): A very general term for someone or something that shoots; context is needed to relate it to a slingshot.
• Wrist-rocket (noun, trademark): A specific, modern type of slingshot with a wrist brace for stability.

Synonyms

• Catapult (in the handheld sense)
• Hand catapult
• Bean shooter (informal, often for smaller versions)

Related Phrases

• Slingshot effect (noun phrase): Also known as the gravity assist maneuver in astronautics, where a spacecraft gains speed by passing near a planet. This is an extended metaphorical use based on the launching action.
  • The probe used a slingshot effect around Jupiter to reach the outer planets.

Idioms

Noun

1. a plaything consisting of a Y-shaped stick with elastic between the arms; used to propel small stones