noun

protrusion

proh-TROO-zhun/prəʊˈtruːʒn/

An outward projection beyond a surrounding surface.

A blunt protrusion extends outward from the otherwise smooth stone slab.

A mostly smooth stone slab with one blunt, integral knob projecting prominently outward from its face, seen at an angle that makes the protrusion unmistakable.

Etymology

proLatinforward

+trusLatinto thrust, push

+ionEnglishaction or state

The underlying image is of pushing something forward or outward. The noun shifted from the action or state of sticking out to the thing that projects beyond its surroundings.

In context

Premier Orthodontics2:58

this short animation will demonstrate how taking out two teeth on the upper arch and then closing the space with braces can fix a severe overbite and help reduce the protrusion of the front teeth

How Do BRACES FIX Overbites? | Overbite Before and After Braces | Premier Orthodontics

More examples

The lid catches on a protrusion inside the box.
She feels a hard protrusion beneath the fabric.
Several sharp protrusions jut from the rock face.

Forms

protrusion · protrusions

protrude verb — To extend beyond a surrounding surface.

Similar words

projection: Often describes a designed extension, especially in architecture or engineering.
bulge: Suggests a rounded swelling rather than a distinct projecting part.