propeller

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "propeller" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a device typically made of two or more blades that rotates to provide thrust or lift for a vehicle, such as a helicopter or boat. For example, "The airplane was powered by five propellers mounted on its wings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

This ionic movement causes a flagellum (a small propeller) on the outside of the alga to begin rotating, which propels the cell towards the light, allowing it to photosynthesise better.

The Economist

The 55-year-old woman was hit by the plane's propeller and suffered a near amputation, according to emergency services.

The Guardian

Another is to shape the vessel's stern in a way that stops air being sucked into the propeller, where it would reduce thrust by lessening the propeller's grip on the water.

The Economist

A Voith-Schneider propeller is similar to a paddle wheel, but has hydrofoil-shaped blades instead of flat ones.

The Economist

What makes the experimental engine room in Leicestershire so special is that it leaves out the bit that usually links the engine and propeller.

The Economist

The 14-cylinder engine turns the longest propeller shaft (130 metres) ever built, at the end of which is the largest propeller, weighing in at 130 tonnes.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

As a result, the Honeywell device achieves an efficiency of over 50%.Such an engine would be light and powerful enough to propel a "micro-air-vehicle"—a propeller-driven aircraft with a wingspan of 15 centimetres or less.

The Economist

The ski-equipped single-propeller Jodel plane had failed to take off from the snowy high-altitude runway near the ski area at Avoriaz.

The Guardian

A so-called autonomous underwater vehicle, it swims by wagging a tail fin like its biological brother, the tuna, and may be able to cover three times the distance of propeller-driven devices running on the same battery.

The Economist

They also provided convenient refuelling stops for propeller-driven aeroplanes that could barely limp across the Atlantic without their petrol gauges flashing.Prestwick survived in the jet age because it was the only designated Scottish airport for transatlantic flights.

The Economist

These propeller-driven reconnaissance drones are made by Aerosonde, an Australian company, and are known by the same name.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing aircraft or boats, use "propeller" to specifically refer to the rotating device that provides thrust. Avoid using it interchangeably with 'fan' unless the context is informal.

Common error

Avoid using "propeller" to describe the main rotating blades of a helicopter. While both provide propulsion, helicopters use rotors, while fixed-wing aircraft and some boats use "propellers".

Linguistic Context

The word "propeller" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a mechanical device with rotating blades that provides thrust for vehicles like aircraft and boats. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "propeller" is a common and grammatically correct noun referring to a rotating device used for propulsion, primarily in aircraft and boats. As Ludwig AI confirms, it follows standard grammar rules. Its usage is very common, especially in News & Media. When writing about mechanics of aircraft and boats, make sure to differentiate it from "rotor". Alternative terms include "airscrew", especially in aviation contexts. Remember, a helicopter uses rotors not "propellers" for lift and thrust. The word "propeller" is used in many authoritative sources like The Economist and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

airscrew

Synonym for "propeller", often used interchangeably in aviation contexts.

screw propeller

Emphasizes the screw-like motion and function of a "propeller".

rotating blade

Focuses on the specific function and design of a "propeller".

fan blade

Highlights the similarity in function between a "propeller" and a fan.

impeller

Refers to a rotating device used to force or induce flow, often in a fluid.

rotor

A general term for a rotating part, applicable to helicopters and some aircraft.

thrust generator

Highlights the "propeller's" role in creating thrust.

driving mechanism

Describes the "propeller" in terms of its function as a power transmitter.

rotating device

A broad term that encompasses the "propeller" as a type of rotating machinery.

propulsion system

Refers to the entire system that includes the "propeller" for moving a vehicle.

FAQs

How is a "propeller" different from a rotor?

While both provide propulsion through rotating blades, a "propeller" is typically found on fixed-wing aircraft and boats, generating thrust. A rotor, common in helicopters, provides both lift and thrust.

What are common synonyms for "propeller" in aviation?

In aviation, the term "airscrew" is often used interchangeably with "propeller" to describe the rotating blade that provides thrust for an aircraft.

Can I use "propeller" to describe any spinning blade?

While "propeller" refers to a specific type of rotating blade designed to generate thrust, it's not appropriate for describing any spinning blade. For instance, a "fan blade" is designed for air circulation, not propulsion.

What is a "propeller" shaft?

A "propeller" shaft is a rotating shaft that transmits power from the engine to the "propeller", causing it to spin and generate thrust. It's a critical component in the propulsion system.