As a noun:
* The Romans used catapults to launch stones at enemy fortifications.
* The catapult launched the pumpkin a surprising distance.
* The catapult is a simple but effective weapon.
As a verb:
* The explosion catapulted the car into the air.
* Her sudden success catapulted her to fame.
* The company's new product catapulted them to the top of the market.
Figuratively:
* His anger catapulted him into a rage.
* The news catapulted her into a state of anxiety.
* The movie's success catapulted the actor to stardom.