propeller

noun

pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpe-lər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
variants or less commonly propellor
: one that propels
especially : a device that consists of a central hub with radiating blades placed and twisted so that each forms part of a helical surface and that is used to propel a vehicle (such as a ship or airplane)

Examples of propeller in a Sentence

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.
The team used derivatives of triptycene, a molecule whose three planes form a propeller-like arrangement. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2026 The craft is powered by a dozen electric motors and propellers mounted on composite wings. — IEEE Spectrum, 22 Oct. 2026 One car that is in development, made by California start-up Alef, has been able to get airborne using eight propellers, four in the front and four in the back. — Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2026 Five retractable, 35-meter rigid sails double as solar panels; when wind drives the ship, propellers generate electricity onboard. — Ashlea Halpern, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for propeller

Word History

Etymology

propel + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propeller was in 1780

Phrases Containing propeller

Rhymes for propeller

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Browse Nearby Words

propellant
propeller
propeller cuff
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Cite this Entry

“Propeller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propeller. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

propeller

noun
pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpel-ər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
: a device consisting of a hub fitted with blades that is made to turn rapidly by an engine and is used especially for propelling airplanes and ships

More from Merriam-Webster on propeller

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about propeller

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