What does propel mean?
Propel means to drive something forward with force, as when a rocket engine propels a spacecraft into space. The verb also describes figurative movement, especially when a person, project, or company is propelled into greater success, visibility, or influence. For example, a strong product launch may propel a business into prominence, while a determined performer may be propelled to the top of her profession. In its less common motivational sense, propel means to urge someone onward with strong enthusiasm or determination. The word is used in standard British and American English and is generally neutral in tone, though it often suggests speed, energy, or forceful advancement rather than gentle movement.
verbTo drive or cause something to move forward, especially with force. It can also mean to propel someone into a successful career, position, or state of prominence.
- To drive or cause something to move forward, especially with force.
- To cause someone or something to move rapidly into a successful position, career, or state of prominence.
- To motivate or compel someone to act with energy or determination.
"The new engine is designed to propel the aircraft safely through heavy turbulence."
"The rocket engines propelled the spacecraft beyond Earth’s atmosphere."
"Her persistence propelled her from a junior analyst to the executive team."
The word propel hides a forward-motion idea in its spelling: the Latin prefix pro- means forward, while propel drives something ahead with force.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does propel come from?
Propel comes from Latin propellere, formed from pro-, meaning forward, and pellere, meaning to drive or push. The word entered English in the early 16th century in the sense of driving or forcing forward. It shares its Latin root with compel, expel, impel, and repel, all of which involve pushing, driving, or forcing in different directions.
Related word forms
How propel is actually used
Propel is neutral in register and is used in both literal and figurative contexts. When referring to a person’s rapid career or status, it often carries a connotation of impressive or sudden advancement.
Easily confused with propel
Both words mean to drive or motivate someone, but propel more often suggests vigorous movement or rapid advancement, whereas impel commonly emphasizes an internal force or compelling reason.
Propel can refer to physical movement or forceful advancement, while compel usually means to force someone to do something.