catchup

Catchup is a term in English with multiple, distinct meanings. As a verb phrase, catch up with means to reach the same point or level as someone else after a period of delay, or to resume progress on a task. In this usage, catch up on describes bringing oneself up to date on information, such as catching up on emails or a report. The related noun catch-up (or catchup) can denote the act or a session designed to restore progress, such as a catch-up with a colleague or a catch-up meeting.

Catchup is also an historical or less common spelling for ketchup, the tomato-based condiment. The sauce known today as ketchup originated from a fermented sauce in parts of Asia; modern versions are predominantly tomato-based and flavored with sugar, vinegar, and spices. English spelling variants have included ketchup, catsup, and catchup, with catchup now being rare in standard usage. In some contexts, catchup may appear in brand names, older publications, or as a misspelling rather than as a recognized term for the condiment.