span
UK: spæn | US: spæn
n. the full extent or duration of something (e.g., time, space)
vt. to extend across or over (e.g., a bridge spans a river)
n. the distance between two points (e.g., wingspan)
The word "span" originates from Old English spann, referring to the measurement between the outstretched thumb and little finger (about 9 inches). Over time, it broadened metaphorically to denote any interval, duration, or physical extent. The verb form emerged from the idea of "covering a distance." Its simplicity reflects its Germanic roots, retaining a direct link to tangible measurement.
The bridge spans the entire river.
Her attention span is remarkably short.
The eagle’s wingspan measures over six feet.
The project spanned three decades.
A single beam spans the width of the room.