propel Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb cause to move forward with force
    impel.
    • Steam propels this ship
  2. verb give an incentive for action
    motivate; prompt; incite; move; actuate.
    • This moved me to sacrifice my career

WordNet

Pro*pel" transitive verb
Etymology
L. propellere, propulsum; pro forward + pellere to drive. See Pulse a beating.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Propelled ; present participle & verbal noun Propelling
Definitions
  1. To drive forward; to urge or press onward by force; to move, or cause to move; as, the wind or steam propels ships; balls are propelled by gunpowder.

Webster 1913