Span Meaning and Definition
Span
Pronunciation
/spæn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A branch, stick, or rod, especially one used for carrying or supporting something.
Etymology
The word “Span” comes from the Old English word “spann”, meaning “to stretch” or “to measure”. It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to a branch, stick, or rod.
Usage Notes
The word “Span” is often used figuratively to refer to a range or extent of something, such as “the span of a career” or “the span of a life”.
Cultural References
The word “Span” has been used in various cultural references, including song titles, such as “Twilight Span” by The Allman Brothers Band, and literary works, such as “The Span” by James Joyce.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- On the span – to be at the peak of one’s career or abilities
- Span of control – the extent of authority or supervision
Related Words or Phrases
- Length
- Range
- Extension
Collocations
- Span of life
- Span of career
- Span of time
Frequency of Use
The word “Span” is commonly used in everyday language, especially in contexts related to measurement, distance, or extent.
Common Misspellings
- Spann
- Spans