catch on

verb

caught on; catching on; catches on

intransitive verb

1

: to become aware : learn

also : understand

didn't catch on to what was going on

2

: to become popular

this idea has already caught on

Synonyms of catch on

• realize
• discover
• see
• get on (to)
• hear
• learn

Examples of catch on in a Sentence

she caught on to the fact that they were planning a surprise party

he finally caught on to the concept of phototaxis

Recent Examples on the Web

The senior receiver made a game-winning, one-handed catch on fourth-and-goal for the Eagles in the closing seconds — and much to the delight of senior quarterback Sean Ruisz. — Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 26 Sep. 2026

It was introduced in 2006 amid a flurry of cartridge introductions and never quite caught on. — John B. Snow, Outdoor Life, 24 Sep. 2026

One recent Saturday, the bracelet caught on a door handle and snapped off. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2026

Why the flame-free trend is catching on Three forces are pushing the category. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for catch on

• anton
• argon
• axon
• baronne
• baryon
• baton
• boron
• buisson
• bygone
• capon
• cardon
• chiffon

Kids Definition

catch on

verb

1

: to realize something

they had been teasing me, and I never caught on

2

: to become popular

will the new style catch on