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Offset: meaning, definitions and examples

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offset

 

[ ˈɔːfˌsɛt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A value added or subtracted in order to shift a graph or curve. In other words, it is a horizontal or vertical displacement of a function.

Synonyms

adjustment, displacement, shift

Examples of usage

  • By applying an offset of +2 to the graph, we can see the shift to the right.
  • The offset of -3 results in a downward shift of the curve.
Context #2 | Verb

computing

To set aside or reserve memory locations for specific purposes. It involves moving a data structure by a certain amount to align it properly.

Synonyms

allocate, relocate, reserve

Examples of usage

  • We need to offset the array to ensure proper alignment of the data.
  • The program offsets the memory locations for efficient memory management.

Translations

Translations of the word "offset" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deslocamento

🇮🇳 ऑफसेट

🇩🇪 Versatz

🇮🇩 offset

🇺🇦 зміщення

🇵🇱 przesunięcie

🇯🇵 オフセット

🇫🇷 décalage

🇪🇸 desplazamiento

🇹🇷 ofset

🇰🇷 오프셋

🇸🇦 إزاحة

🇨🇿 posun

🇸🇰 posun

🇨🇳 偏移

🇸🇮 premik

🇮🇸 færsla

🇰🇿 ығысу

🇬🇪 გადანაცვლება

🇦🇿 ofset

🇲🇽 desplazamiento

Etymology

The word 'offset' originated from the late Middle English period, derived from the Old French word 'offzet', meaning 'set off'. It first appeared in the 16th century with the sense of 'counterbalance' or 'compensation'. Over time, the term evolved to include the meanings related to shifting or adjusting positions, especially in mathematics and computing.

See also: beset, onset, preset, reset, set, setback, setlist, settability, settee, setting, settings, settling, setup, subset, unset.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,402, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.