span Definition

span¹
noun

1a. The distance, interval, length, etc between two points in space or time;

Thesaurus: length, duration, extent, distance, spread, scope, reach, compass, measure.
1b. The length between the supports of a bridge, arch, pier, ceiling, etc;
1c. The extent to which, or the duration of time for which, someone can concentrate, process information, listen attentively, etc;
1d. The maximum distance between the tip of one wing and the tip of the other, eg in birds and planes;


Example: wingspan
Example: timespan
Example: lifespan
2. A measure of length equal to the distance between the tips of thumb and little finger on an extended hand, which is conventionally taken as 9in (23cm).

verb spanned, spanning

1a. Said of a bridge, pier, ceiling, rainbow, etc: to extend across or over, especially in an arched shape;

Example: A rainbow spanned the sky
Thesaurus: cross, traverse, ford, bridge, overarch, link.
1b. To bridge (a river, etc).

Example: spanned the river using logs
2. To last.

Example: The feud spanned more than 30 years
3. To measure or cover, eg by using an extended hand.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon spann.

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span²
noun

1. naut.
Any of several kinds of ropes or chains that are used for securing, fastening, etc.
(US)
2. A pair of horses or oxen, especially two that are very alike in size and colouring.

Etymology: 18c: from Dutch and German spannen to unite or fasten.