Propel

/pɹəˈpɛl/ · verb

Meaning

(transitive) To provide an impetus for motion or physical action; to cause to move in a certain direction; to drive or push forward..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To provide an impetus for motion or physical action; to cause to move in a certain direction; to drive or push forward.
2. (transitive, figurative) To provide an impetus for nonphysical change; to cause to arrive to a certain situation or result.

Example Sentences

When it had advanced from the wood, it hopped much after the fashion of a kangaroo, using its hind feet and tail to propel it, and when it stood erect, it sat upon its tail.

This tunnel assumed some measure of importance during the second world war, when it was used nightly as an air raid shelter for multiple unit electric trains which were propelled over the branch by a steam engine.

Primary mass relays can propel ships thousands of light years, often from one spiral arm of the galaxy to another.

I can discern your nature and see that even without any arguments (logoi) from me it will propel you to what you say you are drawn towards,

Black women helped propel Harris and president-elect Joe Biden to victory by elevating turnout in places like Detroit, Milwaukee and Philadelphia.

Synonyms for propel

Antonyms for propel

Related Words

Word Forms

• propels
• propelling
• propelled

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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