ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌra-mə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: branch, offshoot

b

: a branched structure

2

a

: the act or process of branching

b

: arrangement of branches (as on a plant)

3

: consequence, outgrowth

the ramifications of the decision

Examples of ramification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

On the other hand, is a Space Force takeover of taking out potentially dangerous asteroids warranted, and what might be the ramifications of this switch? —Leonard David, Space.com, 25 July 2025

Experts: Barahona understands ramifications The hearing concluded Wednesday with two final expert witnesses offering contrasting opinions on Jorge Barahona’s ability to stand trial. —Miami Herald, 23 July 2025

There is a long history of American TV networks giving comics space to poke politicians and even network executives in the eye, despite the potential ramifications. —Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 22 July 2025

Newcastle paid £20m for the Greece international, so selling him for a cut-price fee would have ramifications on their calculations for profit and sustainability rules. —David Ornstein, New York Times, 22 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Rhymes for ramification

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌram-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or process of branching

2

: outgrowth sense 1

the ramifications of the decision

Medical Definition

ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌram-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or process of branching

specifically : the mode of arrangement of branches

2

: a branch or offshoot from a main stock or channel

the ramification of an artery

also : the resulting branched structure

make visible the whole ramification of the dendrite