protrusion

noun

pro·​tru·​sion prō-ˈtrü-zhən 

1

: something (such as an anatomical part or excrescence) that protrudes

2

: the act of protruding : the state of being protruded

Synonyms

• bulge
• bunch
• convexity
• jut
• overhang
• projection
• protuberance
• swell

Choose the Right Synonym for protrusion

projection, protrusion, protuberance, bulge mean an extension beyond the normal line or surface.

projection implies a jutting out especially at a sharp angle.

those projections along the wall are safety hazards

protrusion suggests a thrusting out so that the extension seems a deformity.

the bizarre protrusions of a coral reef

protuberance implies a growing or swelling out in rounded form.

a skin disease marked by warty protuberances

bulge suggests an expansion caused by internal pressure.

bulges in the tile floor

Examples of protrusion in a Sentence

bony protrusions on the outside of the elbow

a roof with many protrusions

The pain was caused by a protrusion of a disc in his lower back.

Recent Examples on the Web

The animals are identified by two protrusions on their lower jaw that appear like upside-down vampire fangs. —Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 31 Jan. 2025

The downy also can peck at galls or protrusions on goldenrod plants where insect eggs are lurking. —Sheryl De Vore, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025

And this protrusion, where all its ports are located, even lights up with a soft, supple glow of RGB illumination. —Antonio G. Di Benedetto, The Verge, 7 Jan. 2025

Lenovo developed a rectangular protrusion on the laptop’s base to make room for new vapor chambers connected to two spinning fans inside, situated over the processor. —Joe Osborne, PCMAG, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin protrudere

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

protrusion

noun

pro·​tru·​sion prō-ˈtrü-zhən 

1

: the act of protruding : the state of being protruded

2

: something that protrudes

Medical Definition

protrusion

noun

pro·​tru·​sion prō-ˈtrü-zhən 

1

: the quality or state of protruding

the protrusion of a jaw

2

: something (as an anatomical part) that protrudes