Thrust means to push something forward suddenly and forcefully. When a fencer thrusts their sword toward an opponent, they're making a quick, direct stab. When you thrust your hand into the air to answer a question, you're shooting it up with energy and purpose.

The word suggests power and intention behind the movement. You don't thrust something gently or accidentally. A hockey player thrusts their stick forward to steal the puck. A gardener thrusts a shovel into hard ground. The movement is strong, definite, and aimed at getting something done.

In science, thrust is the force that pushes rockets, jets, and airplanes forward. A rocket's engines create enormous thrust to overcome gravity and push the spacecraft into space. Without enough thrust, a plane can't take off. Engineers measure thrust carefully because it determines whether something can actually move or lift.

The word also describes being pushed into a situation you didn't choose. If your teacher is suddenly absent and you're thrust into the role of leading your group project, you've been pushed into responsibility without warning. When someone is thrust into the spotlight, they find themselves getting attention they might not have expected or wanted.