catching
When used as a verb, "catching" is the present participle of "catch." It describes an action happening right now or a continuous process. As an adjective meaning infectious, it is often used in casual conversation to describe illnesses like colds or flu. In more formal or medical contexts, the word "contagious" is preferred. When describing something appealing (like a melody), it is similar to saying something is "catchy." While "catching" can be used this way, "catchy" is much more common in modern English for music and slogans.
💬Casual Conversation
don't come home if you're catching something. dad is already hacking his lungs out.
great, just what i need while i'm drowning in finals.
Meanings
To seize or capture something that is moving through the air or moving quickly.
"The outfielder is catching the ball to end the game."
Capable of being transmitted from one person to another; infectious.
"Be careful not to touch that surface; the flu is very catching this season."
Captivating, alluring, or instantly appealing to the senses.
"The song has a catching melody that stays in your head for days."