Thrust

/θɹʌst/ · noun

Meaning

(fencing) An attack made by moving the sword parallel to its length and landing with the point..

Definitions by Sense

1. (fencing) An attack made by moving the sword parallel to its length and landing with the point.
2. A push, stab, or lunge forward.
3. The force generated by propulsion, as in a jet engine.
4. (figuratively) The primary effort; the goal.
5. (intransitive) To make advance with force.
6. (transitive) To force something upon someone.
7. (transitive) To push out or extend rapidly or powerfully.
8. (transitive) To push or drive with force; to shove.

Example Sentences

Pierre was a master swordsman, and could parry the thrusts of lesser men with barely a thought.

The cutpurse tried to knock her satchel from her hands, but she avoided his thrust and yelled, "Thief!"

Tilehurst […] began to pedal unhurryingly towards the anticipated lane, with the easy thrust of a man who has just made a substantial meal and knows that he has plenty of time and to spare for his appointment.

Spacecraft are engineering marvels, designed to resist the thrust of liftoff, as well as the reverse pressure of the void.

Ostensibly, the class was about public health in general, but the main thrust was really sex education.

“The main thrust of it was that Britain is losing out, that Brexit it not delivering, our economy is in a weak position,” said the source.

As is normal for biopics, the movie takes liberties with the historical record, but the thrust of the narrative is not disputed.

We thrust at the enemy with our forces.

Synonyms for thrust

Antonyms for thrust

Related Words

Word Forms

• thrusts
• thrusting
• thrust
• thrusted

Usage Notes

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

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions