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

• projection
• protrusion
• bulge
• section
• dome
• convexity
• swell
• overhang
• portion

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

In the far distance lies the Pacific Ocean, and beyond that, featureless protuberances labeled Japan, Russia and China. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 1 Sep. 2025

Above the central display is a ventilative protuberance sporting a pair of menacing ambient lights. —Brett Berk, Robb Report, 19 Aug. 2025

Violet-blue protuberances are surrounded by what look like thorns but are actually soft, if jagged, flower parts. —Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 14 Mar. 2025

By flying drones over a remote stretch of the Canadian Arctic, scientists were able to capture unique footage of narwhals, shedding light on the function of their famed protuberances, according to a study published Feb. 27 in Frontiers in Marine Science. —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for protuberance

• exuberance

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