span
n. countable C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈspæn// UK //spˈæn// span
n. the length of time something lasts, or the distance between two points. You use it to talk about how long a life is or how wide a bridge is.
n. the full extent or reach of something from one point to another, either in space or time. Often used to describe the distance between supports of a structure or the duration of a process.
The bridge has a span of fifty meters.
Most people have a short attention span when they are tired or bored.
The architect designed the roof with a single impressive span to create an open, airy feeling in the main hall without the need for central pillars.
Usage
Commonly used in the compound 'attention span' or the phrase 'life span'.