offset
offset Lexical Profile
offset Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To counteract, compensate for, or balance the effect of something by having an opposing force or value.
"Higher sales in the fourth quarter helped offset the losses incurred earlier in the year."
To place something out of line or off-center relative to another object or axis.
"The architect decided to offset the upper floor slightly to create a shaded overhang below."
• noun
A consideration, amount, or action that diminishes or balances the effect of a contrary one.
"The airline offers passengers the option to purchase a carbon offset when booking their flights."
The amount or distance by which something is out of line, or in computing, the relative distance from the beginning of a data structure to a specific element.
"The programmer calculated the memory offset needed to locate the exact byte in the array."
A method of printing in which ink is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket and then onto the printing surface.
"The publisher chose offset over digital printing because of the large print run."
A short lateral shoot or runner from the base of a plant that takes root and serves for propagation.
"You can easily propagate the succulent by detaching a healthy offset and planting it in sandy soil."
• adjective
Placed out of line or off-center from a main axis or position.
"The mechanic used a wrench with an offset handle to reach the bolt in the tight engine bay."
Relating to or denoting a printing method in which ink is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket and then to the printing surface.
"Most high-volume commercial magazines are produced using offset lithography."
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the mid-16th century, 'offset' is a compound formed from the phrasal expression 'to set off', originally referring to the act of setting out on a journey or a lateral shoot springing from a plant stem.