noun

propellant

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Propellant (noun) means a substance burned or released to generate the force that drives something forward, such as fuel in a rocket engine or gas in an aerosol can. Example: “The rocket's propellant burns off within the first two minutes of launch.”

noun

A substance burned or released to generate the force that drives something forward, such as fuel in a rocket engine or gas in an aerosol can.

"The rocket's propellant burns off within the first two minutes of launch."

"The spray can uses a compressed-gas propellant to push out the paint."

The explosive charge inside an ammunition cartridge that fires the bullet.

"Gunpowder is the traditional propellant used in cartridges."

How to use propellant

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe fuel or gas that pushes something forward or out — used for rockets, aerosol cans, and bullets.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "propellant" (noun) and "propellent" (older adjective spelling) — modern usage treats propellant as standard for both.

Common pairings

rocket propellant aerosol propellant propellant tank

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: propellants

Test yourself on “propellant” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The rocket's _____ burns off within the first two minutes of launch.

Etymology

From propel + the suffix -ant, which turns a verb into "the thing that does the action" — so a propellant is literally "that which propels."

Synonyms

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propellent

Frequently asked questions

What does “propellant” mean?

The word “propellant” means a substance burned or released to generate the force that drives something forward, such as fuel in a rocket engine or gas in an aerosol can. In plain terms, the fuel or gas that pushes something forward or out — used for rockets, aerosol cans, and bullets.

How do you use “propellant” in a sentence?

Here is “propellant” used in a sentence: “The rocket's propellant burns off within the first two minutes of launch.”

What part of speech is “propellant”?

“Propellant” is a noun.

How many meanings does “propellant” have?

“Propellant” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a substance burned or released to generate the force that drives something forward, such as fuel in a rocket engine or gas in an aerosol can.