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span

1. (Science: anatomy) The space from the thumb to the end of the little finger when extended; nine inches; eighth of a fathom.

2. Hence, a small space or a brief portion of time. Yet not to earth's contracted span thy goodness let me bound. (pope) Life's but a span; I'll every inch enjoy. (Farquhar)

3. The spread or extent of an arch between its abutments, or of a beam, girder, truss, roof, bridge, or the like, between its supports.

4. A rope having its ends made fast so that a purchase can be hooked to the bight; also, a rope made fast in the center so that both ends can be used.

5. A pair of horses or other animals driven together; usually, such a pair of horses when similar in colour, form, and action. Span blocks, a large bolt driven through the forecastle deck, with a triangular shackle in the head to receive the heel of the old-fashioned fish davit.

Origin: AS. Spann; akin to D. Span, OHG. Spanna, G. Spanne, Icel. Sponn. See Span.