Catchy describes something that quickly grabs your attention and sticks in your mind, usually in a pleasant way. A catchy song has a melody or rhythm that you find yourself humming hours after hearing it. A catchy slogan uses clever words that people remember and repeat. When advertisers create a catchy jingle, they want it stuck in your brain so you'll think of their product later.

The word often applies to music, phrases, or ideas that are simple, memorable, and appealing. A catchy chorus makes you want to sing along. A catchy name for a new club or team is one that people will remember easily and enjoy saying.

What makes something catchy usually involves repetition, rhythm, or surprise. Think of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”: its simple, repeating pattern makes it catchy. Or consider a clever book title that makes you curious and stays with you.

Not everything catchy is good, though. A catchy tune can become annoying if you hear it too often. And just because an idea is catchy doesn't automatically make it true or important. The catchiest slogan in the world can't make a bad product good.