propeller

noun

pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpe-lər 

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

The boat’s propeller spun in the air, useless; my son looked at me, uncertain. —Joshua Rothman, The New Yorker, 3 Sep. 2024

The radiator, just behind the propeller, serves as a winding and setting crown: clockwise sets the time; counterclockwise winds the movement. —Carol Besler, Robb Report, 5 Aug. 2024

The biggest and heaviest piece of debris was the central part of a propeller with much of its blades sheared off. —Ramy Inocencio, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2024

That generated energy can then be used to power the motor and spin the propellers all with net zero emissions generated during the flight. —Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 11 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

propel + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing propeller

• propeller-head
• screw propeller

Kids Definition

propeller

noun

pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpel-ər 

: 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