propulsion

noun

pro·​pul·​sion prə-ˈpəl-shən 

1

: the action or process of propelling

2

: something that propels

Examples of propulsion in a Sentence

Sailboats use wind as their source of propulsion.

Recent Examples on the Web

The combination is designed to provide the energy density required for long-range operations while retaining the performance advantages of electric propulsion, as per the release. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026

First flight of the heavier CZ-10 with an uncrewed Lanyue lander performing a lunar descent and ascent test, exercising the lander’s propulsion and guidance. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 5 Nov. 2026

That loss, combined with problems with its propulsion system, sent the spacecraft into an uncontrolled spin. — Wanjiku Chebet Kanjumba, The Conversation, 4 Nov. 2026

The goal across the two flights is to demonstrate Chiron’s propulsion system, including its ability to maneuver between different orbital environments. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 3 Nov. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin prōpulsiōn-, prōpulsiō "action of driving out or urging on," derivative, with the suffix of verbal action -tiōn-, -tiō, of Latin propellere "to push or thrust forward, compel to go onward" (with -s- from past participle and verbal noun prōpulsus) — more at propel

First Known Use

1627, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing propulsion

• jet propulsion
• self-propulsion

Rhymes for propulsion

• avulsion
• compulsion
• convulsion
• emulsion
• expulsion
• impulsion
• repulsion
• revulsion
• microemulsion

Kids Definition

propulsion

noun

pro·​pul·​sion prə-ˈpəl-shən 

1

: the action or process of propelling

2

: something that propels

propulsive

-ˈpəl-siv

adjective