Main Entry: pro·jec·tion

Pronunciation: \prə-ˈjek-shən\

Function: noun

Date: 1557

1 a : a systematic presentation of intersecting coordinate lines on a flat surface upon which features from a curved surface (as of the earth or the celestial sphere) may be mapped <an equal-area map projection> b : the process or technique of reproducing a spatial object upon a plane or curved surface or a line by projecting its points; also : a graph or figure so formed
2 : a transforming change
3 : the act of throwing or thrusting forward
4 : the forming of a plan : scheming
5 a (1) : a jutting out (2) : a part that juts out b : a view of a building or architectural element
6 a : the act of perceiving a mental object as spatially and sensibly objective; also : something so perceived b : the attribution of one's own ideas, feelings, or attitudes to other people or to objects; especially : the externalization of blame, guilt, or responsibility as a defense against anxiety
7 : the display of motion pictures by projecting an image from them upon a screen
8 a : the act of projecting especially to an audience b : control of the volume, clarity, and distinctness of a voice to gain greater audibility
9 : an estimate of future possibilities based on a current trend

— pro·jec·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

synonyms 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>.