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

In the late ’40s, Disney began rolling out a Goofy Everyman series that strove to clean him up, erase his dental protrusions, relegate his teeth to rectangular boxes, and dress him in business clothes, but the redesign just didn’t stick and maybe even read as a little evil. —Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2024

Breastfeeding-Specific Tips These tips are for people who are breastfeeding and need help with nipple protrusion to make feeding easier:5 Nipple shields: These devices act like a fake nipple, helping the baby latch and gently pulling the nipple outward. —Brandi Jones, Msn-Ed, Health, 2 Nov. 2024

The Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless antennas are seamlessly integrated into the case, avoiding any protrusions. —PCMAG, 23 Oct. 2024

Photo: Joe Skilton The Tulipa Deco Vase features the delicate glass protrusions for which Jacobsen is known. —Alia Akkam, Architectural Digest, 10 Oct. 2024

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