catch-22
noun
ˈkach-ˌtwen-tē-ˈtü
ˈkech-
plural catch-22's or catch-22s
often capitalized
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
Podcast
Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP
Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share