propel

verb

pro·​pel prə-ˈpel How to pronounce propel (audio)
propelled; propelling

transitive verb

: to drive forward or onward by or as if by means of a force that imparts motion

Examples of propel in a Sentence

He grabbed him and propelled him through the door. The train is propelled by steam.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These regions are being propelled by innovation, favorable demographic trends, and significant untapped growth potential. Emil Sayegh, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024 Speaking at a press conference in Washington, D.C., earlier this month, Federal Chair Jerome Powell indicated that the willingness to keep interest rates high stemmed in part from the health of the U.S. economy and the shoppers propelling it. Max Zahn, ABC News, 26 Dec. 2024 The dynamic one-two punch of Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley has propelled the Eagles to their NFC East-leading 12-3 record. Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 26 Dec. 2024 Maryland has been the home of the NFL’s Washington Commanders since 1997, but new ownership and some congressional help have propelled hopes of Washington, D.C., getting them back within its borders. Jack Birle, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 25 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for propel 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English propellen "to drive away, expel," borrowed from Latin prōpellere "to push or thrust forward, compel to go onward," from prō- "before, in front" + pellere "to beat against, push, strike, rouse, expel" — more at pro- entry 2, pulse entry 1

First Known Use

1558, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propel was in 1558

Dictionary Entries Near propel

Cite this Entry

“Propel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propel. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

propel

verb
pro·​pel prə-ˈpel How to pronounce propel (audio)
propelled; propelling
: to push or drive usually forward or onward
a bicycle is propelled by pedals
propelled by the crowd

More from Merriam-Webster on propel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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