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

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

Word History

Etymology

propel + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing propeller

• propeller-head
• screw propeller

Rhymes for propeller

• bestseller
• bookseller
• flagellar
• impeller
• lamellar
• micellar
• modeller
• ocellar
• patellar
• reseller
• scutellar
• beller

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