verb (propels, propelling, propelled)[with object]
- 1Drive, push, or cause to move in a particular direction, typically forward: the boat is propelled by using a very long paddle [as adjectivein combination]: (-propelled) a rocket-propelled grenade launcherMore example sentences
- But he found he could propel himself forward by pushing off against the sides with his feet.
- The propeller or the jet engine of an aircraft pushes air backwards to propel the aircraft forward.
- And you'll get the added boost of an extra body propelling the boat forward.
- 1.1Spur or drive into a particular situation: fear propelled her out of her stillnessMore example sentences
- These were ordinary people who were propelled into an extraordinary situation.
- Do not let fear of error or retribution propel you into a medical appointment or a dangerous situation.
- He established himself as the champion of the working people and that helped propel him to the presidency.
late Middle English (in the sense 'expel, drive out'): from Latin propellere, from pro- 'forward' + pellere 'to drive'.