Word
spanning
Phoneticsspan·ning
US/ˈspænɪŋ/
UK/spˈænɪŋ/
Definitions
01stretching across space
v. to stretch across a physical space, like a bridge crossing a river.
v. extending across a physical distance or gap; often used to describe architectural or natural features.
“The new bridge is spanning the widest part of the river to connect the two towns.”
“The suspension bridge is spanning the gorge, providing a vital transport link that bypasses the treacherous mountain passes below.”
Usage
Often used in the continuous form to describe a permanent state of being positioned across something.
02stretching across time
v. to last for a certain amount of time or cover a range of topics.
v. extending over a period of time or a variety of subjects.
“Her career is spanning three decades and includes work in many different countries.”
“The documentary is spanning the entire history of the region, from its early settlement to the modern industrial era.”
Usage
Commonly used with time periods like 'decades', 'centuries', or 'generations'.
Synonyms
03the act of bridging
n. the act or process of building something across a gap.
n. the action or process of extending a structure across a space.
“The spanning of the canyon was a great achievement for the engineers.”
“The successful spanning of the bay required innovative engineering techniques to withstand the high tidal forces.”
Technical
Usage
Used as a gerund-noun to describe the engineering feat itself.
Real-World Examples
“First up for Pocognoli is a four-game camp spanning three weeks.” “Her latest track has become her 65th UK top 10 single, spanning four decades since the 1980s.” “The nomadic Shoshone people once roamed lands spanning modern-day Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, Nevada and California.” “Early humans occupied the site during the Middle Pleistocene, a period spanning roughly 774,000 to 129,000 years ago.” Scan code
englishreference.com/q/spanning