protuberance

noun

pro·​tu·​ber·​ance prō-ˈtü-b(ə-)rən(t)s 

-ˈtyü-

1

: something that is protuberant

2

: the quality or state of being protuberant

Synonyms

• bulge
• bunch
• convexity
• jut
• overhang
• projection
• protrusion
• swell

Choose the Right Synonym for protuberance

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 protuberance in a Sentence

the tree trunk had several mossy protuberances where branches had once grown

Recent Examples on the Web

Whether those protuberances make it onto the production vehicle, the latest of which was just shown at the annual CES tech show in Las Vegas, remains to be seen (and hopefully won’t be seen). —William Roberson, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025

There are many different types of foam rollers, but the two main models are: the shorter style with protuberances which is used purely for working on circulation or muscle recovery, and the longer one made of smooth foam without protuberances, used for toning. —Enrica Petraglia, Vogue, 13 Sep. 2024

Tiny projections stick out from the stalk, and the crooked tip has structures called a conical protuberance, a globular head and a rugged flap. —Katie Cottingham, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Sep. 2024

These extreme eruptions on the sun, if large enough, may be visible as tiny pink protuberances peaking around the edge of the moon. —Dean Regas, The Enquirer, 7 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

protuberance

noun

pro·​tu·​ber·​ance prō-ˈt(y)ü-b(ə-)rən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of bulging beyond a surrounding surface

2

: bulge entry 2

Medical Definition

protuberance

noun

pro·​tu·​ber·​ance prō-ˈt(y)ü-b(ə-)rən(t)s 

1

: something that is protuberant

a bony protuberance

2

: the quality or state of being protuberant