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.
Its nuclear reactor powers a single propeller and allows the submarine to remain underwater for extended periods without refueling. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 5 Aug. 2026 When McGrew turned around to pick up the girl, police say she was run over by the pontoon's propeller and sustained serious injuries. — Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 31 July 2026 Those organisms arriving in the fresh or saltwater contained in a ship’s ballast tanks can displace the wildlife native to a region, while dredging, sonar, and propellers cause noise pollution. — Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 30 July 2026 The bomb has to explode; the propeller needs to be properly manufactured, and each attack must get past counter measures – electronic and otherwise. — John Sviokla, Forbes.com, 29 July 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 6 Aug. 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

Nglish: Translation of propeller for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about propeller

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