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

• projection
• protuberance
• bulge
• section
• dome
• overhang
• convexity
• portion
• 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

Folks with acute back pain, disc issues (include herniations, bulgings, and protrusions), and hip labrum injuries, should check with a medical pro first before doing this move, Dr. Yu says. —Jenny McCoy, SELF, 19 June 2025

Early revealed a protrusion of her right shoulder, a permanent disfigurement, caused by a collar bone that was broken on the hill. —Don Riddell, CNN Money, 25 May 2025

That’s right: Jane-Ann’s torso boasts six protrusions in a vertical line just to the left of center, where the buttons of a women’s dress shirt are traditionally placed. —Julie Klausner, New Yorker, 15 May 2025

Some have fingers, horns, and other protrusions appended to their bodies. —Douglas Markowitz, Miami Herald, 3 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin protrudere

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for protrusion

• allusion
• collusion
• conclusion
• confusion
• contusion
• delusion
• diffusion
• effusion
• exclusion
• extrusion
• illusion
• inclusion

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