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

That stage is called the interim cryogenic propulsion stage, which was also provided by ULA. —Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 Mar. 2026

Leaks developed, flooding the engine and reducing steam pressure needed for propulsion. —Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 10 Mar. 2026

These include the basic design of electric propulsion systems linked to nuclear energy, the selection of electrical equipment, and the layout of major onboard power systems. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Mar. 2026

The 42 comes with rooftop solar panels and a hybrid propulsion system that can recharge the onboard batteries. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 9 Mar. 2026

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