First Known Use: 1971
Dictionary
catch–22
noun, often capitalized \-ˌtwen-tē-ˈtü\
: a difficult situation for which there is no easy or possible solution
plural catch–22's or catch–22s
Full 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
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Origin of CATCH-22
from Catch-22, paradoxical rule in the novel Catch-22 (1961) by Joseph Heller
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