'catch-up' originates from the phrase 'catch up,' where 'catch' meant 'to seize or capture' and 'up' indicated 'to a higher position or level.'

'catch up' transformed into the noun 'catch-up' to describe the act of reaching the same level as others.

Initially, it meant 'to seize and bring to a higher level,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'keeping pace with something or someone.'