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protuberance

That which is protuberant swelled or pushed beyond the surrounding or adjacent surface; a swelling or tumour on the body; a prominence; a bunch or knob; an elevation.

(Science: astronomy) solar protuberances, certain rose-coloured masses on the limb of the sun which are seen to extend beyond the edge of the moon at the time of a solar eclipse. They may be discovered with the spectroscope on any clear day. Called also solar prominences.

Synonym: projection, Protuberance.

Protuberance differs from projection, being applied to parts that rise from the surface with a gradual ascent or small angle, whereas a projection may be at a right angle with the surface.

Origin: Cf. F. Protuberance. See Protuberant.