Propel \Pro*pel"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Propelled}; p. pr. & vb.
n. {Propelling}.] [L. propellere, propulsum; pro forward +
pellere to drive. See {Pulse} a beating.]
To drive forward; to urge or press onward by force; to move,
or cause to move; as, the wind or steam propels ships; balls
are propelled by gunpowder.
[1913 Webster]