Span

n. [A-S. spann, sponn, D. span, O. H. Ger. spanna, N. H. Ger. spanne, Sw. spann, Dan. spand, Icel. spönn, from A-S. & O. H. Ger. spannan, to span.]

1. The space from the end of the thumb to the end of the little finger when extended; nine inches; the eighth of a fathom.
2. Hence, a brief extent or portion of time.

Life's but a span; I'll every inch enjoy. Farquhar.

3. (Arch.) The spread or extent of an arch between its abutments.
4. (Naut.) A rope secured at both ends to any object, the purchase being hooked to the bight.

Totten. 5. [D. span, Sw. spann, Dan. spand, Ger. gespann, from A-S. & O. H. Ger. spannan, to span, join.] A pair of horses or other animals driven together; often, such a pair when similar in color, form, and action;—rarely applied to other animals than horses. [U. S.]

v. t. [imp. & p. p. SPANNED; p. pr. & vb. n. SPANNING.] [A-S. & O. H. Ger. spannan, D. & N. H. Ger. spannen, Sw. spänna, Dan. spände.]

1. To measure by the hand with the fingers extended, or with the fingers encompassing the object; as, to span a space or distance; to span a cylinder.
2. To measure, or reach, from one side to the other; to stretch over as an arch; to measure; to compass.

The rivers were spanned by arches of solid masonry. Prescott. 3. To fetter, as a horse.