Offshoot: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that develops from a main part, often in a metaphorical sense like a project or idea branching out from a central activity.

• The new product line is an offshoot of our main business.
• This committee is an offshoot of the original team.

Common in describing actual tree branches as well as divisions within organizations or family trees.

• The bird built its nest on a high branch.
• She works at the local branch of the bank.

Primarily used for young growths in plants but also metaphorically to describe the beginning of something.

• New shoots are coming up in the garden after the rain.
• That startup is just a shoot in a rapidly growing industry.

Typically used for very young plant growths emerging from seeds, often conveying freshness and new beginnings.

• The seeds began to sprout after just a few days.
• Ideas began to sprout in his mind for the new project.

Use this word to describe something that has developed from a main source, often referring to branches of organizations or movements.

• The new company is an offshoot of the original tech firm
• This subculture is an offshoot of the punk movement

This term is ideal for describing something that is based on another source, often implying a lack of originality.

• Her artwork is a derivative of traditional Japanese painting
• The movie felt like a derivative of several older films

This word works well when talking about something that is produced during the process of making something else, usually as a secondary or unintended result.

• A byproduct of industrial activity is increased pollution
• Pain relief is a byproduct of this medication

Use this word when referring to something that has developed from another source, particularly in the context of media, business, or products.

• The television show is a spin-off from a popular movie
• This new line of furniture is a spin-off from their larger home decor collection

Typically used to describe something that has developed from something larger or more important, such as a branch of a company or a secondary result of an existing idea or project.

• The new software is an offshoot of the company's main product.
• Her interest in photography was an offshoot of her passion for travel.

Used to denote a person who is related to someone from a previous generation, often in a formal or genealogical sense.

• She is a direct descendant of one of the founding fathers.
• Many people can trace their ancestors back several generations, but few know their exact descendants.

Commonly used to refer to a person's children or the young of an animal. The word is neutral and can apply to both humans and animals.

• The bird fed its offspring in the nest.
• They are proud parents of three offspring, all of whom are very talented.

Traditionally used to describe someone who is legally entitled to inherit property or titles upon the death of a predecessor.

• As the eldest son, he was the natural heir to his father's estate.
• The king's heir is preparing to ascend the throne.