catch-22
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.catch–22
noun, often capitalized \-ˌtwen-tē-ˈtü\ plural catch–22's or catch–22s
Definition of CATCH-22
1
: a problematic situation for which the only solution is denied by a circumstance inherent in the problem or by a rule <the show-business catch–22—no work unless you have an agent, no agent unless you've worked — Mary Murphy>; also : the circumstance or rule that denies a solution
2
a : an illogical, unreasonable, or senseless situation b : a measure or policy whose effect is the opposite of what was intended c : a situation presenting two equally undesirable alternatives
3
: a hidden difficulty or means of entrapment : catch
See Origin of CATCH-22
from Catch-22, paradoxical rule in the novel Catch-22 (1961) by Joseph Heller
First Known Use: 1971
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