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.
The jumpers climbed into the belly of a maroon-and-white jumpship as its propellers began to whir and then roar. — M. R. O’Connor, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 Against a small quadcopter, damaging a propeller, motor, arm, or other critical component could be enough to bring it down. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026 For comparison, regular drone propellers can rotate at several thousand revolutions per minute. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 26 Aug. 2026 There are frightening stories of swordfish charging boats, and even spearing their transoms and whacking propellers. — Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 26 Aug. 2026 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

Phrases Containing propeller

Rhymes for propeller

See All Rhymes for propeller

Browse Nearby Words

propellant
propeller
propeller cuff
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Propeller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propeller. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about propeller

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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