propeller

[pruh-pel-er]

noun

1. a device having a revolving hub with radiating blades, for propelling an airplane, ship, etc.

2. a person or thing that propels.

3. the bladed rotor of a pump that drives the fluid axially.

4. a wind-driven, usually three-bladed, device that provides mechanical energy, as for driving an electric alternator in wind plants.

propeller

/ prəˈpɛlə /

noun

1. a device having blades radiating from a central hub that is rotated to produce thrust to propel a ship, aircraft, etc

2. a person or thing that propels

propeller

1. A device consisting of a set of two or more twisted, airfoil-shaped blades mounted around a shaft and spun to provide propulsion of a vehicle through water or air, or to cause fluid flow, as in a pump. The lift generated by the spinning blades provides the force that propels the vehicle or the fluid—the lift does not have to result in an actual upward force; its direction is simply parallel to the rotating shaft.

Word History and Origins

Origin of propeller¹

First recorded in 1770–80; propel + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Severe propeller lacerations from a horrific boat accident left doctors with no choice but to amputate her right foot.

From BBC

After a home run, the splash pad will erupt, and propellers will whirl in a bar.

From Los Angeles Times

Of the 1,065 people on board, 30 died when two lifeboats were pulled into the ship's propellers.

From BBC

Each propeller has bearings with two races, or rings or tracks.

From BBC

We could hear the whirring of the propellers before we could see the drone - barely visible as it sliced through the sky.

From BBC

Related Words

• screw