The word "protuberates" is spelled with the prefix "pro-" followed by the root word "tuber," meaning swelling or bulb. The suffix "-ate" signifies action or process, giving the word the meaning of "to swell forth" or "to bulge out." In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is pronounced as /pro-tju-bə-reɪts/. Accurate spelling is crucial in written communication, as it ensures clarity and avoids confusion between similar-sounding words.