propulsion
The action of driving or pushing forward.
[U] Uncountable
This term carries a strong mechanical and technical weight, evoking images of engines, turbines, and high-velocity movement. It is rarely used for simple human walking or animal movement, instead suggesting a powered force that overcomes resistance to achieve speed.
In a psychological or social context, it describes a driving ambition or an irresistible urge that pushes a person toward a specific goal. This usage shifts the focus from a physical engine to an internal, emotional engine that compels action.
The term refers to the general physical phenomenon or the system of driving a vehicle forward.
Meanings
Examples
Water provides propulsion.
Related Words
drivethrustimpulsemomentumpushdragresistancefrictionbrakinginertiaenginemotorrocketturbinepropellerjetfuelcombustionaccelerationvelocityspeedforceenergykineticaerodynamicshydrodynamicsnozzleexhaustplasmaionelectricitymagnetismpropellantoxidizerpayloadorbittrajectoryaviationnavigationshipaircraftspacecraftsatellitecompressorpistoncylindertorquehorsepowerwattagevacuumpressurecompressionexpansiongravityliftairflowcurrentwavepaddleoarscrewrotorstatorpropellaunchboost