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 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

Jonesboro city officials were alerted of a protrusion on the east side of the vacant Citizens Bank Building on Wednesday, leading to the closure of a portion of Main Street until Sunday, according to a news release from the city. —Amir Mahmoud, arkansasonline.com, 26 Sep. 2024

The park's centerpiece castle was also used to show them and, thanks to some technical wizardry, the projections appeared to be flat despite being beamed on to protrusions, balustrades and turrets. —Caroline Reid, Forbes, 16 Aug. 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