Propulsion Meaning
/pɹəˈpʌlʃən/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounThe process of propelling, driving, or pushing, typically forward or onward; a propulsive force or impulse.
nounThat which propels.
Sentence Examples
To overcome drag, airplanes use a propulsion system to generate a force called thrust.
This is the first time solar propulsion has been successfully demonstrated in Earth's orbit.
Rotating machines are essential in subsonic aeronautical propulsion.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The rocket's powerful ____ system uses chemical reactions to create forward thrust.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The spacecraft relied on ion ____ to maintain its trajectory through the outer solar system.
Word Origin & History
Borrowed from Medieval Latin propulsio, propulsionis, from the past participle of Latin propello (“to drive forward, drive forth, drive away, drive out”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"However, nuclear propulsion provides a very high specific impulse and consistent, long duration energy source."
— 1995, Joyce A. Hayes, Benjamin E. Goldberg, David M. Anderson, “Environmental Benefits of Chemical Propulsion”, in Ann F. Whitaker, editor, Aerospace Environmental Technology Conference, page 59:
"This propulsion provides an initial velocity for the vehicle in a short time span."
— 2013, Yung-Kang (Derby) Sun, Non-Propellant Propulsion for Space Flight, page 20:
"Solar-electric propulsion accelerates a spacecraft by means of a low-thrust ion jet."
— 2015, Peter Jedicke, Extreme Science: The Highway of Light and Other Man-Made Wonders, Scientific American:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The rocket's powerful ____ system uses chemical reactions to create forward thrust.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The spacecraft relied on ion ____ to maintain its trajectory through the outer solar system.