offshoot

noun

off·​shoot ˈȯf-ˌshüt How to pronounce offshoot (audio)
Synonyms of offshootnext
1
a
: a collateral or derived branch, descendant, or member : outgrowth
b
: a lateral branch (as of a mountain range)
2
: a branch of a main stem especially of a plant

Examples of offshoot in a Sentence

The business started as an offshoot of an established fashion design company. we knew the rosebush had survived the harsh winter when it began producing offshoots and turning green again
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Among his earliest campaign donors, according to city filings, is top unscripted producer Jeff Jenkins, known for producing The Simple Life as well as Keeping Up with the Kardashians and its offshoots. Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 15 May 2026 The Forest Service approved chainsaw work on 61 trails, most of which are considered mainline or secondary trails — the primary routes in the wilderness and the initial offshoots that branch from them. Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 14 May 2026 The area is divided into six distinct districts, four quadrants around Main Street, plus offshoots at Broad Street and Old Ocean Boulevard. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 14 May 2026 ShinyHunters, or an offshoot, also was behind a previous smaller breach of Instructure, Liska said. Heather Hollingsworth, Chicago Tribune, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for offshoot

Word History

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of offshoot was in 1710

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Cite this Entry

“Offshoot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/offshoot. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

offshoot

noun
off·​shoot ˈȯf-ˌshüt How to pronounce offshoot (audio)
1
: something that branches out from something else
2
: a branch of a main stem of a plant

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