propulsive

adjective

pro·​pul·​sive prə-ˈpəl-siv 

: tending or having power to propel

propulsive force

Examples of propulsive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As a bare stage swiftly gets dressed in black curtains framing its sides, rumblings fester in the dance ensemble’s torsos and limbs; Danker’s music becomes increasingly driving, propulsive (and painfully loud—an issue that persists through most of the evening). —Lauren Warnecke, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2026

The pop-rock hit appeared last on the set and whipped the crowd into a frenzy of propulsive jumps and the loudest cheers of the night. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 11 Apr. 2026

The Pitt has been a huge hit with critics and audiences, who praised its propulsive storytelling, compelling treatment of sensitive topics, and excellent cast. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Apr. 2026

These questions linger as Ion goes about his day, looking for work, begging for change, and scarfing down a meal—moments that flash by in quick, propulsive blips. —Justin Chang, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin prōpulsus, past participle of prōpellere "to push or thrust forward, compel to go onward" + -ive — more at propel

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for propulsive

• compulsive
• convulsive
• expulsive
• impulsive
• repulsive
• electroconvulsive