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.
An oxidizer leak was found on the Dragon spacecraft's propulsion system during prelaunch processing that delayed the launch of the Crew-13 mission to the International Space Station. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026 The main stumbling block involves getting the probe—essentially a large tank of Xenon gas and some solar panels for solar-electric propulsion, and a few small scientific payloads—moving fast enough. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 1 Sep. 2026 Once the system confirms a secure grasp, the drone can switch off its propulsion motors and remain attached to the branch. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026 Unlike some spacecraft in low Earth orbit, Swift doesn't have a propulsion system capable of counteracting atmospheric drag. — Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 31 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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