The Greek verb elaunō means to drive, push, or propel — used of driving animals or vehicles, rowing a boat, and being driven by wind or spirits. The word emphasizes the force or power moving something forward.
Elaunō appears in the miraculous sea crossing narratives (Mark 6:48; John 6:19) — the disciples straining at the oars (elaunō), rowing in the face of adverse wind and waves. These are the moments when Jesus walks on water and enters the boat. Theologically, the elaunō of the disciples represents human effort exhausted against impossible circumstances — the precise moment Jesus appears. The Christian life often reaches this point: our driving and rowing brings us nowhere; only the presence of Christ in the boat resolves the crisis. 2 Peter 2:17 uses it negatively of false teachers 'driven (elaunō) by a storm.'