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

• 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

However, Mediawan is cautious about expecting the same level of recognition in international markets, instead betting on the narrative and visual universality that initially propelled Tran’s comic series up Gaul’s publishing charts. —Ben Croll, Variety, 11 Oct. 2025

Can this win against the Chiefs help propel Jacksonville into the playoffs? —Ted Nguyen, New York Times, 11 Oct. 2025

The performances ultimately captured on the film’s soundtrack helped propel the Sony Pictures Animation title to the top of the all-time Netflix movie chart and turn it into a cultural juggernaut. —Dade Hayes, Deadline, 10 Oct. 2025

While the team has yet to make it to the big show, Mayfield's leadership could propel the team far into the postseason. —James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Oct. 2025

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