propel

verb

pro·​pel prə-ˈpel 

propelled; propelling

transitive verb

: to drive forward or onward by or as if by means of a force that imparts motion

Synonyms of propel

• push
• shove
• drive
• thrust

Examples of propel in a Sentence

He grabbed him and propelled him through the door.

The train is propelled by steam.

Recent Examples on the Web

Concerns over English Channel crossings in overcrowded inflatable boats has helped propel the anti-immigration Reform UK party to victory in recent local and regional elections that led Labour to oust Starmer as leader. — ABC News, 19 July 2026

The artificial intelligence boom has propelled Palantir’s market value to roughly $322 billion—and pushed CEO Alex Karp‘s net worth to about $15 billion. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 17 July 2026

Spain's formidable defense has propelled them into the World Cup final against defending champions Argentina. — Michael Lewis, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Harvey Gantt, elected Charlotte’s first Black mayor in 1983, has credited fundraisers at the Excelsior with helping propel both his City Council and mayoral wins. — Charlotte Observer, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English propellen "to drive away, expel," borrowed from Latin prōpellere "to push or thrust forward, compel to go onward," from prō- "before, in front" + pellere "to beat against, push, strike, rouse, expel" — more at pro- entry 2, pulse entry 1

First Known Use

1558, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for propel

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

propel

verb

pro·​pel prə-ˈpel 

propelled; propelling

: to push or drive usually forward or onward

a bicycle is propelled by pedals

propelled by the crowd