SETOFF Synonyms: 119 Similar and Opposite Words

set off 1 of 2

verb

Definition of set off

as in to trigger

to cause to function set off a bomb

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

setoff

2 of 2

noun

ˈset-ˌȯf

as in ornament

something that decorates or beautifies the architect used stone carvings as setoffs for the building's marble facing

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of set off

Verb

Pyrotechnics set off at home are even more likely to trigger cardiovascular problems, the American Lung Assn. — Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026 Simply wind up your lengths and let the texture through the crown—or even some face-framing flyaways—set off the style. — Calin Van Paris, InStyle, 4 July 2026

Noun

That setoff a fast-moving timeline that will ultimately determine if third graders who fall short on the test will move on to fourth grade or be held back. — Rachel Wegner, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 That setoff a worldwide hunt for the impact site. — Roni Dengler, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2019 See All Example Sentences for set off

Recent Examples of Synonyms for set off

Verb

By triggering the release of a natural growth factor in the brain and modulating neural pathways associated with addiction and reward, ibogaine restores healthy dopamine function and reduces cravings, Barsuglia said.

— Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026
Vibrations from earth-moving equipment could have triggered further collapses, possibly dooming Gil — and his would-be rescuers.

— Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026

Definition of trigger

Noun

For the past decade, Heidi Vermilyea has been in charge of the parade souvenirs, selling hats, t-shirts, and Christmas tree ornaments out of a blue trailer.

— Susan Bence, NPR, 4 July 2026
Hallmark and Disney will also release a collection of goodies inspired by the movie, including greeting cards, ornaments, gifts, gift wrap and other unique products.

— Breanne L. Heldman, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026

Definition of ornament

Noun

The rear fenders are muscular without being bulky, and the tail has a clean, modern appearance that avoids excessive ornamentation.

— Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Scenes from the Old and New Testaments unfold across its length, set within an elaborate decorative scheme inspired by Roman ornamentation.

— Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 26 June 2026

Definition of ornamentation

Verb

When a massive Sonoma Coast residential development pitch sparked fears that beach access would be lost.

— Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026
Going forward, the Breakaway/Build model might spark more giving from foundations and corporations and others that are looking to give in simple, practical ways.

— Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 10 July 2026

Definition of spark

Noun

People in costumes marched alongside floats with advertisements and extravagantly patriotic decorations.

— Nolan Rogalski, The Providence Journal, 5 July 2026
On Monday, June 29, multiple trucks were spotted outside the famous arena with workers loading equipment, grass and other decorations inside.

— Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026

Definition of decoration

Verb

Feedback will help guide future improvements for people who walk, bike, use transit and drive through the corridor.

— Tyler Quattrin, Twin Cities, 8 July 2026
When her husband, financier John Molner, returned home from the gym, the two drove to the campus of the Aspen Institute, where Couric was excited to hit the hot dog stand for lunch.

— Kathleen Perricone, Entertainment Weekly, 8 July 2026

Definition of drive

Noun

Federal student loan default can also expose you to wage garnishment, tax refund complications, and in some cases, Social Security offsets.

— True Tamplin, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Understand how your disability benefits are protected A major concern for many disability recipients is whether a debt collector can take their benefits via tools like wage garnishment or bank levies.

— Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 22 June 2026

Definition of garnishment

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set in motion

set off

setoff

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Style

“Set off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/set%20off. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of set off

verb

noun

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