propellent

/prəˈpɛlənt/
noun
  1. A substance used to propel or thrust something forward, such as fuel in a rocket or gas in an aerosol can.
    • Scientists are developing a new, cleaner propellent for future space missions.
    • Aerosol cans use a compressed gas as a propellent to spray the contents.
    • The rocket's propellent ignited and launched the spacecraft into orbit.
adjective
  1. Capable of propelling or causing forward motion.
    • The design focuses on maximizing the propellent efficiency of the thruster.
    • A propellent gas is needed to make the airbag inflate quickly.
    • The propellent force of the engine pushed the boat through the water.