Propel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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propel
[prəˈpel ]
Definitions
in physics
To cause to move forward or onward by a force; push.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| propel |
Use 'propel' when describing causing movement, especially forward or upward, often with force or energy. Common in scientific, mechanical, or technical contexts.
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| drive |
Use 'drive' for causing or motivating movement or action, often with a sense of control or direction. It's common in everyday language and mechanical contexts.
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| push |
Use 'push' when exerting force on something to move it away from oneself or achieve movement. Often involves physical touch or manual action.
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| thrust |
Use 'thrust' to convey a sudden or forceful push or movement forward, often implying a quick or aggressive action.
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| move |
Use 'move' for general actions of changing position or causing change in position. It is the most generic and commonly used term.
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Examples of usage
- The jet engine propels the airplane forward.
- The rocket is propelled into space by powerful engines.
marketing
A device or system that provides thrust to push an object forward.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| propel |
Used when talking about moving something forward, usually with force. It often appears in both mechanical and figurative contexts.
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| thrust device |
Employed in technical contexts, particularly aeronautics and engineering, to describe tools or mechanisms that generate thrust.
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| engine |
Refers to the central part of a machine that converts energy into mechanical force, common in cars, planes, and other machinery.
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| motor |
Generally used to describe a small device that generates motion, especially in electrical appliances and smaller machines.
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Examples of usage
- The new electric motor is an efficient propel for boats.
- The water jet propulsion system is popular in marine applications.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, propulsion involves various forces that move vehicles or objects, essential for understanding motion.
- Rocket propulsion relies on Newton's Third Law, where action and reaction create thrust upwards.
- Different modes of propulsion exist, from biological (fish propelling through water) to mechanical (cars using engines).
Technology
- Various vehicles, like boats and airplanes, use different propulsion methods, including sails, engines, and turbines.
- Electric propulsion is becoming more common in vehicles, leveraging battery power for efficient movement without emissions.
- Magnetic propulsion systems, such as maglev trains, utilize electromagnetism to propel cars at high speeds with minimal friction.
Culture
- In literature, characters often find themselves propelled by their desires, leading to plot developments and conflicts.
- Sports often highlight the concept of propulsion, such as in track and field where athletes propel themselves forward to win.
- Dance and performance arts frequently explore movement, with dancers propelled by rhythm and energy.
History
- The invention of the steam engine in the 18th century represented a significant leap in mechanical propulsion technology.
- Ancient civilizations, like the Greeks and Romans, used various methods to propel ships, including oars and sails.
- The Space Age began with propelled rockets, exemplifying humanity's drive to explore beyond Earth.
Origin of 'propel'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'propellere', where 'pro-' means forward and 'pellere' means to drive or push.
- It has been used in English since the 15th century, showing how long humans have been interested in movement and motion.
- Related words include 'repel' (to push back) and 'compel' (to push together), demonstrating how the prefix alters meanings.
The word 'propel' originated from the Latin word 'propellere', which means 'to drive forward'. The term has been used since the 15th century and has evolved to signify the action of causing something to move forward by applying force. Over the years, 'propel' has become commonly associated with the concept of movement and driving force.