span
Translation
span, period, duration, length
Examples
He has a short attention span.
He has a short attention span.
The bridge has a long span.
The bridge has a long span.
A lifespan can be over 100 years.
A lifespan can be over 100 years.
Grammar Patterns
((a span of sth.)) a period of (sth.) We have a short span of time.
Similar Words
Synonyms: period, duration, stretch, extent
Etymology
From Old English 'spann', the distance between the thumb and little finger of an outstretched hand.
Memory Tips
Picture spanning your hand across a map to measure a distance, representing a 'span' of space or time.