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

Dragonfly is also reportedly equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system with electric Azimuth Pod Drives. —Bill Springer, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

The launch, which carried a 300-kilogram payload—the heaviest ever for Iran—included an 'orbital propulsion system' and the Fakhr-1 satellite, reportedly for military use. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024

Liftoff was delayed from Wednesday due to a technical issue with the spacecraft's propulsion systems. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 5 Dec. 2024

Alternative methods of propulsion—hydrogen fuel cells and green methanol for superyachts, say, or diesel-electric power for vessels under 100 feet—have been discussed for years yet are often dismissed by builders as too complex and expensive. —Katia Damborsky, Robb Report, 30 Nov. 2024

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

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