1. drives or pushes something forward with force
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘propel’
2. causes someone to move quickly in a particular direction
Usage: often used figuratively

Examples

• The rocket engine propels the spacecraft into orbit.
• Wind propels the sailboat across the lake.
• The jet engine propels air backward to create thrust.
• Her ambition propels her toward success.
• The explosion propels debris in all directions.
• Steam propels the old locomotive down the tracks.