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

Do not be caught on the water in a thunderstorm. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 June 2026

As his catchphrases and personality caught on, Hogan began one of his most famous feuds with Andre the Giant. —Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 8 June 2026

Quietly, though, Sutton finished second in the NFL in 2024 and tied for 10th in 2025 in catches on balls thrown more than 20 yards in the air, according to Next Gen Stats. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 7 June 2026

While officials said the shooting was not caught on camera, the pizza delivery driver can be seen in footage walking with the boxes while being followed by two people wearing dark clothing. —Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 7 June 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