propel

verb

pro·​pel prə-ˈpel How to pronounce propel (audio)
propelled; propelling

transitive verb

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

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 His exceptional pace, technical abilities, and goal-scoring instinct have quickly propelled him through the ranks of professional football, showcasing a promising future for African talent. Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 The song’s emotional depth and strong streaming performance have propelled her into new chart territory. Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 15 Oct. 2024 The Europa Clipper launched Monday afternoon aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, which is designed to help propel the spacecraft on a six-year journey to reach its namesake moon, an icy ocean world. Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 14 Oct. 2024 The title will play through All Saints holidays, which start next week, and word of mouth is expected to propel it to a strong run. Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for propel 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'propel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of propel was in 1558

Dictionary Entries Near propel

Cite this Entry

“Propel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propel. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

propel

verb
pro·​pel prə-ˈpel How to pronounce propel (audio)
propelled; propelling
: to push or drive usually forward or onward
a bicycle is propelled by pedals
propelled by the crowd

More from Merriam-Webster on propel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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