# offshoot

/ˈɔfˌʃut/ (US) · /ˈɒfʃuːt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/offshoot
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

something that grows or develops from a larger thing. It can be a physical part of a plant or a new idea that comes from an older one.

For teachers: a secondary growth or development that arises from a primary source. Often used to describe a branch of a plant or a derivative concept, organization, or movement.

## Examples

- The new company is an offshoot of the original firm.
- The local community garden was an offshoot of a national initiative to promote urban farming.
- The political movement began as a minor offshoot of the larger party but eventually gained enough momentum to challenge the establishment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.