WordGarden.iocatchall
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈætʃɔːl/
US
- /ˈkæˌtʃɔl/
Meanings
Adjective
broadly inclusive or meant to cover many different cases
Noun
a broad category, term, rule, or label that includes miscellaneous things
a container or place for miscellaneous small items
Beyond the definition
A catchall is like that junk drawer in your kitchen—it's a place where you toss everything that doesn't quite have a home. It can be a physical thing, like a box or tray, but it can also be an idea. A catchall phrase is intentionally broad, used to cover many different things at once. Think of "miscellaneous" or "other"—those are catchall categories. If someone says they're interested in "arts and crafts," that's pretty broad; it's a bit of a catchall term.
The word suggests something designed to collect a wide variety of items, often without much organization. In writing, policies, or contracts, you'll also see a catchall clause (or provision): a line meant to include anything not already listed. It's useful when you need one bucket for the things that don't fit neatly into other categories.
The word "catchall" describes something designed to encompass a wide range of items or concepts, often without specific categorization. Imagine an old-fashioned general store—selling everything from nails and thread to candy and farm tools. That's a classic example of a catchall establishment. It catches all sorts of goods!
Originally, "catchall" referred to a type of basket or container used for collecting various items—a place where odds and ends could be tossed without needing individual storage. This physical meaning still exists: you might have a "catchall" tray on your desk for pens, paperclips, and other small objects.
However, "catchall" is often used figuratively. A "catchall phrase" is one that's intentionally broad to include many different things—like saying someone has a "background in the humanities," which could mean anything from literature to history to philosophy. Politicians sometimes use catchall terms like "economic growth" or "national security" to appeal to a wide range of voters.
You'll also hear it in more formal settings: a catchall clause, category, or policy is meant to sweep in anything that wasn't specifically named. That can be convenient, but it can also feel vague or overly broad—especially when people disagree about what should count as "included."
The key idea behind "catchall" is inclusivity, even if it means sacrificing specificity. It's about gathering everything under one umbrella, whether that umbrella is a physical container or a conceptual category. So next time you need a word for "everything else," remember the humble catchall—the ultimate collector of all things!
Examples
- 1
Survey category
In the report, the category “other” became a catchall for responses that didn’t fit anywhere else.
- 2
Wellness term
People often use “wellness” as a catchall term for everything from sleep to mental health.
- 3
Budget account
What started as a budget for office supplies turned into a catchall account for all sorts of small expenses.
- 4
Contract language
The contract includes some catchall language that could be interpreted very broadly.
- Phrasecatchall language
general wording meant to cover many different cases
See also
Similar
- umbrella term
- miscellany
- grab bag
Shades of meaning
- blanket term
- residual category
- junk drawer
Contrast
- specific category
- precise term
Used with (collocations)
- catchall term
- catchall category
- catchall provision
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- catchallnoun