n.
- a part of a tree which grows out from the trunk or a bough.
- a part of a river, road, or railway that extends from the main part.
- a division of a large organization.
▸a subdivision of a subject, group of languages, etc.
v.
- (of a road or path) divide into one or more subdivisions.
- (of a tree or plant) bear or send out branches.
-
(branch out)
extend one's activities or interests in a new direction.
Derivative
- branchlet n.
- branch-like adj.
- branchy adj.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. branche, from late L. branca ‘paw’.