catching

adjective

catch·​ing ˈka-chiŋ How to pronounce catching (audio)
ˈke-
1
: infectious, contagious
the flu is catching
his spirit is catching
2

Examples of catching in a Sentence

“I have a cold.” “Is it catching?” a cold is often catching before the symptoms even begin
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Almost every team calls on their catching depth throughout the season. Grant Brisbee, The Athletic, 24 Mar. 2025 Murphy will begin this season on the IL, opening the door for prized catching prospect Drake Baldwin to make his major-league debut. John Perrotto, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 He's currently listed as the Washington Nationals' catching and strategy coach. Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025 He’s expected to split catching duties 50-50 with Teel. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 27 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for catching

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of catching was in 1594

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Cite this Entry

“Catching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catching. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

catching

adjective
: infectious
the flu is catching

More from Merriam-Webster on catching

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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