|
| branch [ branch ] |
noun (plural branch·es) |
|
| Definition: |
| |
1. part of tree growing from trunk: a woody limb of a tree that grows out from a larger limb or from the trunk
|
2. botany part of plant stem or root: a subdivision of the stem, root, or flower cluster of a plant
|
3. something like tree branch: something that resembles a branch of a tree in structure
  the branches of the stag's antlers
|
4. local unit in organization: a store, bank, or other organization that is part of a larger group and is located in a different part of a geographic area from the parent organization
The account is held at the bank's Elm Street branch.
|
5. distinct part of large organization: a subdivision of a large organization, usually with a specialized mission
Each branch of the military has a distinctive history and reputation.
|
6. part of subject area: a part of a large area of study
Ethics is a branch of philosophy.
|
7. family line: a line of a family that is descended from a common ancestor
the Peruvian branch of the family
|
8. geography tributary stream: a river or stream flowing into another river
a branch of the Colorado River
|
9. Southern U.S. geography creek: a small stream or a creek
A branch runs through our lower pasture.
|
10. Southern U.S. beverages drinking water: drinking water, especially from a clean spring or stream, and used particularly for mixing with bourbon
|
11. comput alternative instruction sequence: a sequence of computer program instructions in a set of alternative sequences that are activated according to specific conditions
|
12. mathematics part of curve: a distinctive part of a curve that is separated from the rest of the curve, e.g. by discontinuities or extreme points
|
verb (past and past participle branched, present participle branch·ing, 3rd person present singular branch·es) |
|
| Definition: |
| |
1. transitive and intransitive verb divide: to divide into smaller parts, or cause something to do this
Part of the path branches off toward the river.
|
2. intransitive verb botany have branches: to grow branches
|
3. intransitive verb expand activities or interests: to become involved in something new, especially as a way of extending or expanding personal interests or business activities
The company has branched into the multimedia market.
|
4. intransitive verb comput jump to alternate program path: to execute an alternative sequence of computer program instructions as a result of the detection of a specific condition
|
| [13th century. Via French branche< late Latin branca "paw"] |
|
|
|
|
