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Spann is a term that occurs mainly as a German surname and as a component in several German-language words. In English-language contexts it is most often encountered as a family name, preserving the pronunciation of the German.

In German, the root spann is not a common standalone noun in everyday usage. Its sense is most clearly seen in related forms such as Spannung, meaning tension or voltage, and Spanne, meaning span or gap. These related words convey ideas of stretch, tightness, or extent between two points. The English word span shares a similar core meaning and is etymologically related to the German forms, though the two languages have developed distinct spellings and usage.

As a surname, Spann is found among people of German heritage and in communities formed by German diaspora. The name has spread to North America and other regions, where bearers have pursued a wide range of professions. The surname can appear in historical records, genealogies, and contemporary contexts without implying a specific occupation or origin beyond ethnic lineage.

Overall, Spann is relatively uncommon as a standalone German noun outside of proper names. Its primary significance in non-name use lies in its connection to the family name and, through related words, to concepts of tension, stretch, and extent. The term should be distinguished from the English word span, though they share a related semantic thread.