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

Actors portraying patients arrived with realistic makeup and prosthetics designed to mimic blunt-force trauma, propeller injuries, burns and other emergency conditions. — Jessica Riley, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026

Its propeller uses a tractor configuration, with the propeller positioned ahead of the engine. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 2026

These could be something as natural as gravity pulling the fluid downwards, or an artificial intervention like a propeller. — Konstantin Kakaes, Quanta Magazine, 8 Sep. 2026

Traditionally, many of these devices have relied on propellers, which cause some issues. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 8 Sep. 2026

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