propeller

noun

pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpe-lər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
variants or less commonly propellor
: one that propels
especially : a device that consists of a central hub with radiating blades placed and twisted so that each forms part of a helical surface and that is used to propel a vehicle (such as a ship or airplane)

Examples of propeller 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.
Approach with caution – The Coast Guard warns people trying to help others in trouble to keep engines off when people are in the water, watch for propellers, and maintain safe distance. Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2025 These power propellers which are used to direct the blimp and help it to gain altitude. Trinity Francis, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 The emergency power system is defined as a ram air turbine (RAT), according to the report, and described as a small propeller that drops from the plane’s fuselage and acts as a backup generator. David Chiu, People.com, 18 June 2025 In the Candlewood Lake incident, a 20-year-old woman died after being struck by a boat propeller. Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for propeller

Word History

Etymology

propel + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propeller was in 1780

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Propeller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propeller. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

propeller

noun
pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpel-ər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
: a device consisting of a hub fitted with blades that is made to turn rapidly by an engine and is used especially for propelling airplanes and ships

More from Merriam-Webster on propeller

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!