branch
branch Lexical Profile
branch Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A woody structural member connected to, but not part of, the central trunk of a tree or shrub.
"The heavy snow caused a large oak branch to snap and fall onto the driveway."
A division, local office, or subsidiary of a large business, government, or institution.
"She transferred to the downtown branch of the bank last month."
A distinct area of knowledge, study, or academic discipline within a broader subject.
"Botany is the branch of biology that focuses on the scientific study of plants."
A lateral extension or subdivision of a river, road, railway, or mountain range that diverges from the main body.
"The hikers followed the eastern branch of the river up into the foothills."
• verb
To divide into one or more subdivisions or extend in different directions from a main stem or central point.
"Follow the main trail until it branches into two narrower paths near the summit."
To expand one's interests, business activities, or operations into a new area or field (usually followed by 'out').
"After years of selling books, the company decided to branch out into educational software."
• Rhymes for branch
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Entered Middle English from Old French 'branche', which derives from Late Latin 'branca' meaning 'paw' or 'footprint', likely of Gaulish origin.