propel

[pruh-pel]

verb (used with object)

propelled, propelling 

1. to drive, or cause to move, forward or onward.

   to propel a boat by rowing.

   Synonyms: prod, push

2. to impel or urge onward.

   Urgent need of money propelled him to take a job.

   Synonyms: prod, push

propel

/ prəˈpɛl /

verb

1. (tr) to impel, drive, or cause to move forwards

Other Word Forms

• unpropelled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of propel¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English propellen “to expel,” from Latin prōpellere “to drive forward,” from prō- pro- ¹ + pellere “to drive, push, strike”

Word History and Origins

Origin of propel¹

C15: from Latin prōpellere to drive onwards, from _pro- ¹ + pellere to drive

Example Sentences

After all, it was the New Zealand forward's 20 Premier League goals last season that helped propel Forest back into Europe.

From BBC

However the exhaustion caused by her condition means she's unable to propel herself and relies on others to push her.

From BBC

Analysts said the uptick was propelled by price discounts and and other sales incentives from builders, who are grappling with an oversupply of newly-built homes for sale.

From BBC

This makes its chips a critical commodity in the AI boom and has propelled it to the forefront of global geopolitics.

From Los Angeles Times

Lilith Fair boosted careers and chart positions, and propelled records, songs, and artists towards Grammy nominations and wins.

From Salon

Related Words

• drive 
• push 
• send 
• shoot 
• thrust