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

Built to counter advanced Soviet submarines during the closing years of the Cold War, the Seawolf features a powerful nuclear propulsion system, advanced sonar, and extensive acoustic quieting measures. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 4 Aug. 2026

The music funnels the breakneck propulsion of 2006’s Stay Afraid and 2007’s Mapmaker but also the compositional patience of 2008’s Receivers and Constant Future. — Arman Khan, Pitchfork, 4 Aug. 2026

Synchronizing with them requires precise, multi-axis propulsion and control systems. — Alan Bradley, Space.com, 2 Aug. 2026

Some enthusiasts will always treasure the sound and mechanical involvement of a gasoline engine, while others will welcome the instant, gutsier response and refinement of electric propulsion. — Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 31 July 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