Definition
A cockpit control on airplanes equipped with a constant-speed propeller that sets the desired propeller RPM by adjusting the governor, which in turn changes the pitch (blade angle) of the propeller blades to maintain that RPM.
Plain English
A lever in the cockpit that lets the pilot choose how fast the propeller spins. The system then automatically adjusts the blade angle to hold that speed.
Context Anchor
Seen in airplanes with constant-speed propellers during run-up checks, takeoff and landing setup, and glide or emergency procedures where propeller drag matters.
Derivation
Propeller comes from a Latin word meaning “to drive forward.” Lever comes from an older word meaning “to raise or move.” Together, propeller lever means the cockpit handle used to change how the propeller is set to drive the airplane forward.
Why Pilots Care
Moving the lever aft in a glide lowers RPM, reduces drag, and improves glide distance while helping manage engine temperatures.
Intuition Check
Do not think of the propeller lever as another throttle. The throttle controls engine power; the propeller lever controls the propeller RPM setting and blade angle.
Example Sentence 1
On final approach, the pilot pushed the propeller lever full forward to set high RPM in case a go-around was needed.
Example Sentence 2
Before landing the pilot pushed the propeller lever forward to set high RPM for a possible go-around.