catching

adjective

catch·​ing ˈka-chiŋ 

ˈke-

1

: infectious, contagious

the flu is catching

his spirit is catching

2

: catchy, alluring

Synonyms

• communicable
• contagious
• pestilent
• transmissible
• transmittable

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

Top catching prospect Ethan Salas, 18, is not ready for the majors, after logging a .599 OPS last season in High A. While Minnesota could be a logical trade partner, a deal is not a foregone conclusion. —Dan Hayes, The Athletic, 22 Jan. 2025

The deal required one of the Padres’ top pitching prospects (Dylan Lesko), arguably their second-best catching prospect (J.D. Gonzalez) and an up-and-coming speedy outfield prospect (Homer Bush Jr.). —Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Jan. 2025

But catching, prosecuting and stopping these kinds of crimes can prove difficult, according to stakeholders. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 7 Jan. 2025

However, Cartaya is their second-best catching prospect. —David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing catching

• (one's) age is catching up to one

Kids Definition

catching

adjective

: infectious

the flu is catching