propeller

noun

pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpe-lər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
variants or less commonly propellor
: one that propels
especially : a device that consists of a central hub with radiating blades placed and twisted so that each forms part of a helical surface and that is used to propel a vehicle (such as a ship or airplane)

Examples of propeller in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Quinlan couldn’t get the propeller to work, and the craft continued to rise, reaching as high as 3,000 feet. Erik Ofgang, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 June 2024 In 2021, the Journal-News reported that one of the propeller blades from the wrecked B-17 bomber was being transferred from a World War II museum in France to the Middletown Historical Society. Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 8 Feb. 2024 The company is renovating ships, some of which are decades-old, with an eye on environmentally friendly paint, and new propeller blades, gears, and control systems that minimize energy use. Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 May 2023 Kristen Livengood, a spokeswoman for Monroe County Fire Rescue, said the Carolina Skiff’s propeller cut Hrynyshyn’s head and leg. David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 30 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for propeller 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'propeller.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

propel + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propeller was in 1780

Dictionary Entries Near propeller

Cite this Entry

“Propeller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propeller. Accessed 17 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

propeller

noun
pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpel-ər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
: a device consisting of a hub fitted with blades that is made to turn rapidly by an engine and is used especially for propelling airplanes and ships

More from Merriam-Webster on propeller

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