Entry Word: propel

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to apply force to (someone or something) so that it moves in front of one <playfully he propelled his rambunctious friend into the swimming pool to cool off> — see push 1
2 to cause to function <the use of steam to propel ships> — see activate
3 to set or keep in motion <a bicycle is propelled by pedals> — see move 2