propel
pruh-PEL
/prəˈpel/
To drive, push, or cause to move forward or in a particular direction.
Implies strong, continuous forward movement, either physical or metaphorical.
The story behind the word. Formed from Latin 'pro-' (forward) and 'pellere' (to drive or push). From ancient Greek galleys driven by oars to modern rocket propulsion, the root has always signified strong forward force.
Word relationships
- thrust: Thrust implies a sharp, forceful push, while propel can be steady and sustained.
- launch: Launch emphasizes setting something off from a start, while propel emphasizes driving it onward.
- hinder: Hinder means to delay or impede progress.
- retard: Retard means to slow down development or movement.
Commonly confused with
- repel: Propel means to drive forward; repel means to drive back or away.
Word family
- propulsion (noun): The action of driving or pushing forward.
- propeller (noun): A rotating mechanical blade that drives a craft.
Collocations
- propel forward
- propel to fame
- propel growth
Example sentences
- "Her breakthrough research propelled her to the forefront of international cancer studies." Biography
- "Jet engines propel the aircraft forward by exhausting high-speed gas." Engineering
Memory hook
PROPEL = PRO (forward) + PEL (push like a propeller). Push forward.
When not to use
Do not use for gentle coaxing or holding something stationary.
Fun facts
- 'Propeller' entered maritime vocabulary in the 1830s when steamships replaced paddle wheels with rotating blades.
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