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

She was flung overboard and hit by the propellers. —CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025

The draw was its speed, propeller-less jet drives and ability to turn on a dime. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 7 Nov. 2025

The front of the plane appears to be missing a propeller. —Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 5 Nov. 2025

The facility also serves as a center for aeroacoustics research, where scientists study the noise generated by aircraft components, from landing gear to propeller blades. —Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 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