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 hybrid propulsion system also improves flight range and payload capacity, according to CGTN. —Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 3 Feb. 2026

Marsa Luna is also the second T52 to be equipped with the yard’s upgraded hybrid propulsion system, which helps to reduce environmental impact on the water. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 30 Jan. 2026

The service module is an expendable part of the Orion space ship that provides propulsion, electricity and atmosphere regeneration during the trip to the moon and back. —Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 30 Jan. 2026

Revolutions in marine design include the iconic pool lounge onboard Alfa Nero, Maltese Falcon’s boundary-pushing sailing tech and Breakthrough, the first superyacht to be powered by hydrogen propulsion. —Dea Jusufi, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 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