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span

/spæn/

When used as a noun, "span" often refers to physical distance (like a bridge) or time (like a lifespan). It is almost always used as a countable noun. As a verb, it describes the act of stretching across something. It is commonly used in historical or geographical contexts to describe how far something reaches.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon; Karen is at a PTA meeting and David is at his office.
David Smith

Leo's attention span is non-existent today. He's totally zoning out.

David Smith
Karen Smith
Karen Smith

He gets that from you. Just deal with it.

💡
David uses 'attention span' to describe Leo's inability to focus, while Karen uses the phrasal verb 'deal with it' to dismiss David's complaint with her characteristic passive-aggressive tone.

Meanings

noun

The full extent of something from end to end; the distance between two points.

"The bridge has a total span of 500 meters."

noun

The length of time that something lasts.

"Humans have a much longer life span than most small mammals."

verb (transitive)

To extend across a period of time or a physical space.

"The empire's territory spanned three different continents."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error