Protrude

To extend beyond or project from a surface or boundary; to stick out. This action often implies a noticeable or prominent extension, sometimes unwanted, and can refer to physical objects, parts of the body, or even abstract concepts like emotions. The degree of protrusion can vary from a slight extension to a significant projection, depending on the context. The term emphasizes a departure from a flat or even plane, drawing attention to the element that extends outward. Protrusion can be natural, accidental, or deliberately engineered, and carries different connotations depending on the scenario. Think of a nail protruding from a wooden plank or a feeling of anger protruding from a person's face.

Protrude meaning with examples

• A rusty nail protruded dangerously from the decaying fence post, posing a hazard to anyone passing by. The gardener noticed it immediately and removed it to prevent any injury. It was such an obvious threat, he was concerned it had gone unnoticed before and hoped no one would be harmed. It seemed to be an unfortunate consequence of leaving the garden to disrepair.
• His prominent jawline protruded further as he clenched his teeth, a sign of mounting frustration. This was something he had always been self-conscious about. He always felt it drew too much attention. He tried to relax his face but it was difficult. He found himself constantly worried about his appearance.
• The submarine's periscope protruded above the surface of the ocean, allowing the crew to survey the surroundings without fully surfacing. The periscope helped them navigate. It was essential equipment for that task. It was a technological advantage. It was essential for both their survival and their mission.
• During the construction, a large section of the building's scaffolding was accidentally left protruding, blocking access to the sidewalk. The construction crew was quick to act. It was a safety issue, a liability and a hazard for everyone. It took them hours to rectify it and it impacted their schedule.