propeller

noun

pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpe-lər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
variants or less commonly propellor
: one that propels
especially : a device that consists of a central hub with radiating blades placed and twisted so that each forms part of a helical surface and that is used to propel a vehicle (such as a ship or airplane)

Examples of propeller in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cavitation is caused by a submarine's spinning propeller blades, which create bubbles in the water. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2024 Her hull shape and fully electric propulsion system with inline contra rotating propellers is an evolution from the Breathe concept first proposed in 2010. Bill Springer, Forbes, 4 Oct. 2024 The aircraft can handle a payload of 992 pounds and is supported by eight low-noise propellers and eight electric motors. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 29 Aug. 2024 In its current form, the Prosperity is designed around a single pilot and four passengers, relying on 10 lift propellers and three push props powered by a 160-kWh battery to carry a payload up to 400 kg (880 lb). New Atlas, 8 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for propeller 

Word History

Etymology

propel + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propeller was in 1780

Dictionary Entries Near propeller

Cite this Entry

“Propeller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propeller. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

propeller

noun
pro·​pel·​ler prə-ˈpel-ər How to pronounce propeller (audio)
: a device consisting of a hub fitted with blades that is made to turn rapidly by an engine and is used especially for propelling airplanes and ships

More from Merriam-Webster on propeller

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!