stonecatcher means something that catches or traps stones. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 82 out of 100.
Why “stonecatcher” is a great word
STONECATCHER — [Noun] One who shows mercy by intervening to protect others from harsh or unjust condemnation. From stone (a piece of rock or a metaphor for a projectile of condemnation) + catcher (one who seizes or intercepts). The specific metaphoric sense of a merciful intercessor was popularized in the early 21st century by lawyer and activist Bryan Stevenson, who reported hearing the term used in a Louisiana courtroom, alluding to John 8:7. Unlike a mediator, who neutrally facilitates a resolution, or a scapegoat, who is involuntarily burdened with blame, a stonecatcher is a partisan defender who voluntarily steps into the line of fire. It is the bodily instinct to shield another from a flung rock, the quiet word that deflects a torrent of public shaming, or the hand raised not to throw but to intercept—a deliberate, intercepting motion that declares mercy is a choice, not a creed.
Etymology
From stone + catcher. The metaphoric meaning refers to the biblical verse (John 8:7) "let he who is without sin cast the first stone", and was popularized by Bryan Stevenson, who heard the term used by a woman in a Louisiana courtroom.
noun
- Something that catches or traps stones.“The dirt and stones detached from the beets are deposited on the floor of the stonecatcher, or receiver, fixed to the back part of this machine, from which they are from time to time emptied out from below;”
- A person who shows mercy by intervening when someone is treated with overly harsh or cruel punishments.“But today, our self-righteousness, our fear, and our anger have caused even the Christians to hurl stones at the people who fall down, even when we know we should forgive or show compassion. I told the congregation that we can't simply watch that happen. I told them we have to be stonecatchers.”