propulsion

noun

pro·​pul·​sion prə-ˈpəl-shən 

1

: the action or process of propelling

2

: something that propels

Examples of propulsion in a Sentence

Sailboats use wind as their source of propulsion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Underwater scooters, also called diver propulsion vehicles (DPVs), were first developed for military use during World War II. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 13 Aug. 2025

Similar to automakers, Apex offers different trim levels of its satellites, with options like more power, a fancier communications system and a choice between electrical or chemical propulsion. —Jeremy Bogaisky, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2025

The mission would require two major advances: the discovery of a sufficiently close black hole, and the development of laser propulsion systems and miniature spacecraft capable of surviving interstellar travel. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 7 Aug. 2025

Two of the motors are used for propulsion while in surface cleaning mode, and two are used to regulate buoyancy. —PC Magazine, 6 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin prōpulsiōn-, prōpulsiō "action of driving out or urging on," derivative, with the suffix of verbal action -tiōn-, -tiō, of Latin propellere "to push or thrust forward, compel to go onward" (with -s- from past participle and verbal noun prōpulsus) — more at propel

First Known Use

1627, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing propulsion

• jet propulsion
• self-propulsion

Rhymes for propulsion

• avulsion
• compulsion
• convulsion
• emulsion
• expulsion
• impulsion
• repulsion
• revulsion
• microemulsion

Kids Definition

propulsion

noun

pro·​pul·​sion prə-ˈpəl-shən 

1

: the action or process of propelling

2

: something that propels

propulsive

-ˈpəl-siv

adjective