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propel

/pɹəˈpɛl/verb

To push or drive something forward.

Example sentences

  • “A strong tailwind propelled the sailboat across the bay.”
  • “Rowers propel the boat forward with long, steady strokes.”

Often figurative with 'to': the win propelled her to fame. The related noun is 'propeller', the spinning blades that drive aircraft.

Synonyms for propel

  • drive
  • push
  • thrust
  • power
  • launch

Related words