thruster

noun

thrust·​er ˈthrə-stər How to pronounce thruster (audio)
variants or less commonly thrustor
: one that thrusts
especially : an engine (such as a jet engine) that develops thrust by expelling a jet of fluid or a stream of particles

Examples of thruster in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The spacecraft's four electric engines, known as Hall effect thrusters, were supplied by a Russian company named Fakel. ArsTechnica, 1 May 2025 However, the agency also affirms that these thrusters can remain off until at least mid-June before worries arise about Psyche's trajectory toward its asteroid target. Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 1 May 2025 An instant before touchdown, pressurized nitrogen gas thrusters fire to slow the descent to walking pace. Jennifer Earl, Analisa Novak, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2025 As the Starliner got closer to the space station, a second thruster was also lost. Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thruster

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thruster was in 1597

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thruster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thruster. Accessed 14 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

thruster

noun
thrust·​er ˈthrəs-tər How to pronounce thruster (audio)
: one that thrusts
especially : an engine that produces thrust by discharging a jet of fluid or a stream of particles

More from Merriam-Webster on thruster

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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