propulsion

[ pruh-puhl-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of propelling.
2. the state of being propelled.
3. a means of propelling; propelling force, impulse, etc.

propulsion

/ prəˈpʌlʃən; prəˈpʌlsɪv /

noun

1. the act of propelling or the state of being propelled
2. a propelling force

Derived Forms

• propulsive, adjective

Other Words From

• pro·pul·sive [pr, uh, -, puhl, -siv], pro·pulso·ry adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of propulsion¹

1605–15; < Latin prōpuls ( us ) (past participle of prōpellere to propel ) + -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of propulsion¹

C15: from Latin prōpellere to propel

Example Sentences

Last week, researchers at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in California found satellite images that indicate China is working on nuclear propulsion for a new aircraft carrier.

From BBC

The episodes unfold with the thrilling speed and sense of unnerving propulsion, but there’s also space for the audience to better understand what drives the assassin and the spy who’s looking for him.

From Los Angeles Times

After launching in June following repeated delays, the capsule returned remotely and uncrewed due to problems with its propulsion system.

From Los Angeles Times

During the flight it experienced a number of problems, including leaks of helium - which is used in its propulsion system - and issues with several of its thrusters.

From BBC

“There’s a feeling that there are a great many risks here,” according to Dr Adam Baker, a rocket propulsion specialist at Cranfield University.

From BBC