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

Additionally, though there is a stationary model, for those who do choose the propulsion version, a 67-kW (90-hp) inboard electric thruster and 10-kW (13-hp) bow thruster are used to move it around. —Adam Williams, New Atlas, 28 Oct. 2024

Unlike chemical propulsion systems, nuclear thermal propulsion systems rely on nuclear fission reactions to heat the propellant that is then expelled from the nozzle to create the driving force or thrust. —Amber Dasilva / Jalopnik, Quartz, 15 Oct. 2024

In this layout, the powertrain can run off either propulsion system individually or simultaneously—all power goes through the gearbox to the all-wheel drive system, which electronically distributes torque where needed. —Michael Harley, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

There’s not much narrative propulsion this time, no steady build to Fleck’s righteous, Travis Bickle-y revenge. —Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune, 3 Oct. 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