ramification

[ ram-uh-fi-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of ramifying.
2. a branch:

   ramifications of a nerve.

3. a related or derived subject, problem, etc.; outgrowth; consequence; implication:

   The new tax law proved to have many ramifications unforeseen by the lawmakers.

4. Botany.
   1. a structure formed of branches.
   2. a configuration of branching parts.

ramification

/ ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or process of ramifying or branching out
2. an offshoot or subdivision
3. often plural a subsidiary consequence, esp one that complicates
4. a structure of branching parts

Word History and Origins

Origin of ramification¹

1670–80; < Middle French < Medieval Latin rāmificāt ( us ) (past participle of rāmificāre to ramify ) + Middle French -ion -ion

Example Sentences

“And that mixture of nutrients may be impacted by global climate change, because climate change is changing ocean circulation physics at the basin scale — like the Pacific Ocean scale — and that can have ramification on what kinds of water — the flavor of water — that is upwelling onto the coast in California.”

From Los Angeles Times

In a comment about the event at the time, Mr Millar said he was “delighted” to be at the event and said: “I thank God immensely how He shook a guy in Singapore and attracted him to this place in order to invest in what I believe is a project that would have ramification for the kingdom of God for many years to come. And I am delighted to be part of it.”

From BBC

Another possible ramification is that there will be fewer IVF providers, he said.

From Seattle Times

“Owners would not be participating in the program if they knew this would be the ramification,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

This ramification wraps around an inner structure, enabling cooling winds off the sea to ventilate the property.

From BBC

Related Words

• complication
• consequence
• upshot