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.
Jackson aimed his trademark fiery dynamism at studio and network executives, forming the Rainbow Coalition on Fairness in the Media — an offshoot of his Rainbow Coalition that focused on social justice and economic equality — and threatening boycotts against projects that excluded minorities. Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026 Medley, who starred on RHONY for six seasons, among other offshoots, was announced as a new castmember on Tuesday, joining the previously familiar group of Kelly Bensimon, Countess Luann de Lesseps, Sonja Morgan and Ramona Singer. Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 17 Feb. 2026 There are overarching acronyms, sub acronyms and offshoot acronyms. Tara Donaldson, Vogue, 16 Feb. 2026 The company is an offshoot of Hounsou’s previous company, Fanaticus Entertainment. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 15 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Offshoot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/offshoot. Accessed 24 Feb. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on offshoot

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster