protuberance
UK: prəˈtjuːbərəns | US: proʊˈtuːbərəns
n. a protruding part; a bulge or swelling
n. (biology) an anatomical outgrowth or projection
The word "protuberance" originates from Latin protuberare ("to swell forward"), combining pro- (forward) and tuber (a swelling or lump). The suffix -ance forms a noun indicating a state or quality. Historically, tuber referred to natural bulges (e.g., plant tubers), later generalized to any protrusion. The term reflects a vivid image of something pushing outward, retaining its logical tie to physical expansion.
The tree’s bark had a strange protuberance resembling a human face.
A bony protuberance on his wrist made it difficult to wear watches.
The caterpillar’s body was covered in small, spiky protuberances.
Geologists studied the rock’s protuberances to determine erosion patterns.
The MRI revealed a harmless protuberance on the patient’s spine.