Definition, synonyms and related words
The process by which something is spanned.
"The new bridge project involved a complex engineering phase spanning over three years before completion."
In plain English: A spanning is not actually a noun; it is usually an adjective describing something that stretches across from one side to another, like a bridge or a gap-filling action.
"The building was designed with an internal spanning that created two separate floors without load-bearing walls in between."
Usage: This noun form is extremely rare and often confused with the participle "spanning," so writers should generally avoid using it unless quoting a specific technical source. In almost all contexts, use the adjective or verb forms instead to describe how something covers a range.
present participle of span
"The long bridge spanning the river connected the two distant towns."
In plain English: Spanning means stretching across something to connect two points on either side.
"The festival spans three days and includes music, art, and food stalls in different areas."