Propulsion
/prəˈpʌlʃən/
Definitions
The act or process of driving or pushing something forward.
/prəˈpʌlʃən/
The action of driving or pushing something forward.
The invention of the jet engine revolutionized aircraft propulsion.
💡 Simply: Propulsion is like the 'go' power. It's what makes a car move, a rocket fly, or a boat sail. Without it, things just stay put! Imagine you're trying to push a swing. The pushing is the propulsion!
👶 For kids: Propulsion means to push something to make it move.
More Examples
The submarine's propulsion system relied on electric motors.
Scientists are exploring new forms of propulsion for spacecraft.
How It's Used
"The spacecraft's propulsion system allows it to travel through space."
"The ship's propulsion is provided by powerful diesel engines."
Idioms & expressions
propulsion system
The mechanism or method used to generate propulsion, such as an engine or a rocket.
"The Mars rover utilizes a sophisticated propulsion system to navigate the planet's surface."
From Latin *prōpulsio*, from *prōpellere* ('to push forward'), from *pro-* ('forward') + *pellere* ('to drive, to push').
The word propulsion has been used since the mid-19th century, with early applications in mechanical engineering related to boats and steam engines. Its use expanded with the development of rockets and airplanes.
Memory tip
Think of a rocket being pushed or propelled into space; that's propulsion!
Word Origin
"To drive or push forward"