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

Its nuclear reactor powers a single propeller and allows the submarine to remain underwater for extended periods without refueling. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 5 Aug. 2026

When McGrew turned around to pick up the girl, police say she was run over by the pontoon's propeller and sustained serious injuries. — Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 31 July 2026

Those organisms arriving in the fresh or saltwater contained in a ship’s ballast tanks can displace the wildlife native to a region, while dredging, sonar, and propellers cause noise pollution. — Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 30 July 2026

The bomb has to explode; the propeller needs to be properly manufactured, and each attack must get past counter measures – electronic and otherwise. — John Sviokla, Forbes.com, 29 July 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