ramification

Definition

A branching-out, the act or result of developing branches; specifically the divergence of the stem and limbs of a plant into smaller ones, or of similar developments in blood vessels, anatomical structures etc.

Etymology

From Middle French ramification, or its source, Medieval Latin rāmificātiō. By surface analysis, ramify + -ication.

Example Sentences

• "The character of trees may be studied to advantage […] in winter, when the forms of the ramification can be seen in the naked boughs […]"
• "From the left chamber or ventricle of the strong muscular mass, the heart, a large tube arises, called the aorta; and by a continued division or ramification, opens a way for the bright scarlet blood to the very minutest part of the living frame […]"
• "[…]we may be sure that Becky and Briggs looked out those august names in the Peerage, and followed the noble races up through all the ramifications of the family tree."

Related Words