propulsive

adjective

pro·​pul·​sive prə-ˈpəl-siv How to pronounce propulsive (audio)
: tending or having power to propel
propulsive force

Examples of propulsive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tilt is a propulsive account of survival, and how humanity shows up under the pressure of a catastrophe. Andrew R. Chow, Time, 6 June 2025 Franklin’s debut novel tells a propulsive story about class, race, and being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Jasmine Vojdani, Vulture, 2 June 2025 Sometimes the listless mind craves action, adventure, and drama, but propulsive page-turners aren’t the only way to dispel dullness. Rhian Sasseen, The Atlantic, 29 May 2025 Lee makes the action more propulsive by staging it against the backdrop of Puerto Rican Day celebrations, with hundreds dancing to a live performance by Latin music great Eddie Palmieri and his orchestra, blocking access to a strategic subway stop. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for propulsive

Word History

Etymology

Latin prōpulsus, past participle of prōpellere "to push or thrust forward, compel to go onward" + -ive — more at propel

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propulsive was in 1648

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Cite this Entry

“Propulsive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propulsive. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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