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Definition of offshoot

offshoot

/ˈɔːf.ʃuːt/
off · shoot
Plural:offshoots
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offshoot Lexical Profile

offshoot Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A thing that originates or develops from something else, such as a subsidiary organization, a collateral family branch, or a derivative concept.

Example

"The small tech startup began as an independent offshoot of a university research laboratory."

2

A side shoot or branch growing out from the main stem or root of a plant.

Example

"The gardener carefully pruned the woody offshoots at the base of the rose bush to encourage stronger blooms."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

offscreen
offseason
offset
offshoot
offshore
offshoring
offside

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 17th century from the combination of 'off' and 'shoot' (in the botanical sense of a new plant growth), originally referring to a lateral stem before acquiring its figurative sense of a derivative organization or idea.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Offshoot. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/offshoot
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