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| span [ span ] |
noun (plural spans) |
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| Definition: |
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1. distance between limits: the distance or expanse between two extremes or limits
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2. distance between bridge supports: the extent or space between abutments or supports, e.g. on a bridge or arch, or a portion of the structure that is supported in this way
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3. aviation Same as wingspan
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4. period for maintenance of cognitive function: the period of time during which a mental function or act can be maintained
 a short attention span
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5. period of time: a period of time, especially the lifetime of a person
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6. measurements old measurement: an old measurement based on the distance from the end of the thumb to the end of the little finger of a spread hand, approximately 23 cm (9 in)
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transitive verb (past and past participle spanned, present participle span·ning, 3rd person present singular spans) |
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| Definition: |
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1. extend over or across something: to reach or extend over or across something
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2. measure something with the hand: to measure something by or as if by the hand with fingers and thumb fully extended
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| [ Old English spann< Germanic] |