SPAN

1. The space from the thumb to the end of the few finger when extended; nine inches; eighth of a fathom. 2. Hence, a little space or a brief portion of time. "Yet not to earth's contracted span Thy goodness allow me bound." (Pope) "Life's but a span; I will each inch enjoy." (Farquhar) 3. The spread or extent of an arch between its abutments, or of a beam, girder, truss, roof, bridge, or the like, between its supports. 4. A rope having its ends made quick so that a purchase can be hooked to the bight; also, a rope made quick in the center so that both ends can be used. 5. A pair of horses or another animals driven together; generally, such a pair of horses when similar in colour, form, and action. Span blocks, a big bolt driven through the forecastle deck, with a triangular shackle in the head to receive the heel of the old-fashioned fish davit. Origin: AS. Spann; akin to D. Span, OHG. Spanna, G. Spanne, Icel. Sponn. See Span.

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