dictionary.pt

dictionary.pt

propeller

nounfemininetechnicalcommon/ˈɛlisɨ/hé·li·ce

Definitions

2
1

A mechanical device consisting of two or more curved blades fixed to a central shaft, which, when rotated, produces thrust in a fluid (such as air or water) for propulsion or lift.

Usage examples

The airplane's propeller began to spin before takeoff.
The boat has a three-bladed propeller.

Common combinations

airplane propellerboat propellerpropeller bladepropeller shaft
2

A three-dimensional curve that advances around an axis, like the shape of a spring or a spiral staircase (geometric sense).

Usage examples

The DNA molecule has the shape of a double helix.
The spiral staircase describes a helix.

Synonyms

Common combinations

double helixhelical shapecylindrical helix