span
//spæn//
Noun
spanSingular
spansPlural
1
The full extent of something from end to end; the amount of space that something covers.
The bridge has a span of 500 meters.
2
A period of time during which something exists or continues.
The project was completed within a span of three months.
3
The distance between the tips of the thumb and little finger when the hand is fully extended, used as a unit of measurement.
In ancient times, people often measured cloth using a span.
4
The part of a bridge between two supports.
The bridge has three spans supported by concrete pillars.
Verb
spanInfinitive
spanPresent tense
spannedPast tense
spannedPast participle
spanningPresent participle
spansThird-person singular
1
To extend across or over a period of time or a physical distance.
His career spanned over 40 years.
2
To cover or reach from one side to another.
The bridge spans the river.