Branch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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branch
[brรฆntส ]
Definitions
of a tree
A part of a tree that grows out from the trunk or a bough.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| branch |
General term for a part of a tree that grows out from the trunk. It can be used in botanical or casual contexts.
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| limb |
A large or main branch of a tree. It can also refer to a human or animal's arm or leg, but in this context, it's for trees. It's often used to describe branches that are significant in size.
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| bough |
Refers to a larger, main branch of a tree, typically used in more formal or literary contexts.
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| twig |
Refers to a very small, thin branch or shoot of a tree or bush, perfect for describing finer or more delicate parts.
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Examples of usage
- The branches of the oak tree swayed in the wind.
- She sat under the shade of the branches, reading a book.
of an organization
A division or section of a larger organization, such as a company or government.
Synonyms
department, division, section.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| branch |
Used to refer to a local office or a subdivision of a larger organization or structure. Often related to businesses or government services with multiple locations.
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| division |
Indicates a larger unit within an organization that encompasses multiple departments or functions. Often used in corporations, military, or large institutions.
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| section |
Typically used for smaller parts within a department, publication, or document. It can also refer to a specific area within a place or event.
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| department |
Refers to a specialized section within a larger organization, typically in businesses, universities, or government. Commonly used to denote a specific area of responsibility.
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Examples of usage
- The company opened a new branch in the city center.
- He works at the local branch of the bank.
to diverge or spread out
To diverge or spread out from a central point.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| branch |
Used to refer to parts of a tree or to divisions within an organization or system.
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| diverge |
Used when talking about things that move or extend in different directions from a common point, often used in a more abstract sense.
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| spread |
Used when talking about something that covers a wide area or moves over a surface, often implying movement or expansion.
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| extend |
Used when something is stretched out or made longer in either a physical or temporal sense.
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Examples of usage
- The river branch into smaller streams as it flowed through the valley.
- His thoughts began to branch into different directions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Botany
- Branches help trees grow by extending their reach to capture sunlight and gather nutrients.
- They play a critical role in the tree's overall structure, supporting leaves and reproductive organs like flowers and fruits.
- The pattern in which branches grow is often specific to the type of tree, influencing aesthetics and stability.
Symbolism
- In various cultures, branches symbolize growth and new beginnings, often featured in rituals and ceremonies.
- The concept of branching out is often associated with personal growth and making new choices in life.
- Branches can also represent connections in art and literature, illustrating how different paths may diverge and come together.
Pop Culture
- In popular fairy tales, trees with expansive branches often serve as mystical hiding places for characters or treasures.
- The iconic Tree of Life, depicted in various cultures, has numerous branches symbolizing interconnectedness among all forms of life.
- Movies and video games sometimes illustrate branching storylines, where choices lead to different outcomes, much like tree branches diverging.
Science
- Branches are essential in the study of ecology, as they provide habitats for various bird species and insects.
- In evolutionary biology, the concept of a 'branch' is used to explain how species diverge over time from a common ancestor.
- The study of tree architecture includes understanding how branches adapt to mechanical stresses for better survival.
Origin of 'branch'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'branch' comes from the Old French term 'branche', which also means the limb of a tree.
- It has roots in the Latin word 'branca', meaning 'claw' or 'fang', hinting at how branches spread out like a claw.
- In Middle English, 'branch' referred to any part of a tree, making its meaning broaden over time.
The word 'branch' originated from the Old French word 'branche', which meant a limb of a tree. The English word 'branch' has been used since the 13th century to refer to the divisions of a tree, and later extended to represent divisions or sections of organizations. The verb form of 'branch' emerged in the 18th century, reflecting the idea of something diverging or spreading out. Over time, 'branch' has become a versatile word used in various contexts.