Definition of protrusionnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word protrusion different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of protrusion are bulge, projection, and protuberance. While all these words mean "an extension beyond the normal line or surface," protrusion suggests a thrusting out so that the extension seems a deformity.

the bizarre protrusions of a coral reef

When is it sensible to use bulge instead of protrusion?

The meanings of bulge and protrusion largely overlap; however, bulge suggests an expansion caused by internal pressure.

bulges in the tile floor

When is projection a more appropriate choice than protrusion?

The synonyms projection and protrusion are sometimes interchangeable, but projection implies a jutting out especially at a sharp angle.

those projections along the wall are safety hazards

When would protuberance be a good substitute for protrusion?

The words protuberance and protrusion can be used in similar contexts, but protuberance implies a growing or swelling out in rounded form.

a skin disease marked by warty protuberances

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of protrusion The female’s back is covered in small protrusions that resemble popped kernels of popcorn, inspiring its genus name Zea, derived from the corn plant. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2025 This protein is needed for the formation of cilia — hairlike protrusions that cells can use to move — as well as in the assembly of the mitotic spindle that organizes chromosomes during cell division, and for the transport of neurotransmitters in neurons. Quanta Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025 Karst formations, a porous rock, stick out as jagged protrusions in between lush forest and provide plenty of places for small creatures to hide. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2025 Their name comes from the unique protrusions on their back that resemble horns and serve as a defense mechanism against predators including other sharks, elephant seals and some large fish. Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for protrusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protrusion
Noun
  • As a result, total net unauthorized immigration for 2025 reached -548,000, about 50% more than the Congressional Budget Office’s latest projection of -365,000.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 4 Apr. 2026
  • But another result, according to experts and projections from government officials, figures to touch wallets.
    Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • This is the small bony protuberance found at the rear base of the human skull.
    Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Dec. 2025
  • When cells produce proteins, the amino acids spontaneously fold into tangled and twisted structures, with pockets and protuberances, and sometimes long, trailing tails.
    Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 28 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The Arab Spring uprisings of 2011-12 owe much of their origin to a youth bulge in the Middle East.
    John Rennie Short, The Conversation, 31 Mar. 2026
  • The diagnosis came after a headache that developed behind his eyes at the beginning of last year, followed by a left eye bulge so noticeable that his boss sent him home from work.
    Rebecca Cohen, NBC news, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The shutdowns are slated to take place during the night hours in sections of Alameda County, Contra Costa County and Solano County, the state Transportation Department said.
    George Avalos, Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2026
  • My spacious room in the heritage section had stained cedar headboards with gorgeous grain, a large comfortable sofa and heather grey carpets.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Use the dome light and flashers to make your vehicle more noticeable.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 Apr. 2026
  • These and other features, including extensive air handling equipment, are designed to keep highly radioactive materials such as uranium and plutonium trapped inside the dome, according to multiple experts.
    Tamara Qiblawi, CNN Money, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • But the orders for its planes haven't gone anywhere, so shares could be in for a major rebound once the war overhang is lifted.
    Jim Cramer, CNBC, 2 Apr. 2026
  • With several other social media cases scheduled to go to trial in California state court this year, legal issues are expected to remain an overhang on shares for some time.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Today, convexity, which can be more expensive, is used earlier and some experts recommend a convexity-first approach after ostomy surgery.
    Diego Schaps, STAT, 1 Apr. 2026
  • The tower flaunts its partnership with the Dime Savings Bank, sending the 1908 landmark’s geometrical exuberance rocketing upward in a play of convexities and concavities, glass and trim, darkness and gleam.
    Justin Davidson, Curbed, 28 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Kitchen staff pile the plates high with big portions, ensuring leftovers to take home.
    Joe Marusak April 1, Charlotte Observer, 1 Apr. 2026
  • No substitution or compensation will be given for any portion of the prize that is not used.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Protrusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protrusion. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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