propulsion

noun

pro·​pul·​sion prə-ˈpəl-shən How to pronounce propulsion (audio)
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
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.
For an interceptor, propulsion efficiency can influence how much energy remains available during an engagement. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026 Innovations such as electric propulsion systems that allow for greater maneuverability and extended mission durations are part of the solution, as is in-orbit servicing, maintenance and refuelling. — David Zamora, Space.com, 23 Oct. 2026 To do so, the shoe pairs a carbon fiber plate with TPU stability wings and supercritical foam to support propulsion, stability and responsive cushioning. — Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026 Along with this, spacecraft are now required to be built to avoid shedding debris or including unstable components like potentially explosive batteries or propulsion systems. — New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for propulsion

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of propulsion was in 1627

Phrases Containing propulsion

Rhymes for propulsion

See All Rhymes for propulsion

Browse Nearby Words

propugnator
propulsion
propulsive
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

propulsion

noun
pro·​pul·​sion prə-ˈpəl-shən How to pronounce propulsion (audio)
1
: the action or process of propelling
2
: something that propels
propulsive
-ˈpəl-siv
adjective
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