slingshot
/'sliɳʃɔt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- a plaything consisting of a Y-shaped stick with elastic between the arms; used to propel small stones