span1
  
  n.
    - the full extent of something from end to end; the amount of space covered. ▸a wingspan. ▸a part of a bridge between piers or supports. 
- the length of time for which something lasts.
- 
(also handspan)
 the maximum distance between the tips of the thumb and little finger, taken as the basis of a measurement equal to 9 inches.
- archaic a short distance or time.
v.
 (spans, spanning, spanned)
 extend across or over.
Etymology
  OE, ‘distance between thumb and little finger’, of Gmc origin.
 
  
    
span2
  
  n.
  - Nautical  a rope with its ends fastened at different points in order to provide a purchase.
- a team of people or animals, especially a matched pair of horses or oxen.
v.
 S. African yoke (an animal).
Etymology
  C16: from Du. or Low Ger. spannen.