Definition
An engine and propeller configuration in which the propeller is mounted behind the engine (or behind the wing or fuselage section it is attached to) so that it pushes the aircraft forward through the air rather than pulling it. The propeller faces aft, and its thrust is directed rearward to drive the aircraft forward.
Plain English
The propeller sits at the back and pushes the aircraft from behind, instead of sitting at the front and pulling it.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft configuration descriptions, maintenance manuals, and preflight discussions for aircraft with rear-mounted propellers.
Derivation
From the everyday verb 'push.' The name simply describes what the propeller does to the aircraft — it pushes from behind, as opposed to a 'tractor' configuration where the propeller pulls from the front.
Why Pilots Care
Affects propeller clearance, engine cooling airflow, center-of-gravity location, and noise levels in the cabin.
Intuition Check
Do not read “pusher” as meaning the engine itself physically shoves the airplane. The propeller still makes the moving air; it is called a pusher because of where the propeller is placed and how it drives the aircraft forward.
Example Sentence 1
The amphibious aircraft used a pusher powerplant mounted above the fuselage to keep the propeller clear of water spray during takeoff.
Example Sentence 2
Mechanics check the propeller spinner and engine mounts more frequently on pusher powerplant airplanes because of the reversed thrust line.