ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌra-mə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: branch, offshoot

b

: a branched structure

2

a

: the act or process of branching

b

: arrangement of branches (as on a plant)

3

: consequence, outgrowth

the ramifications of the decision

Examples of ramification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The on-field ramifications for Colorado were important. —Emmanuel Morgan, New York Times, 26 Dec. 2024

Alex Bregman might be an obvious choice to many, but the financial and qualifying offer ramifications go well beyond a $200 million contract. —Wayne G. McDonnell, Jr., Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024

Everton fans know all too well the ramifications of chaotic manager dismissals as a result of flawed appointments in the first place. —Greg O'Keeffe, The Athletic, 20 Dec. 2024

The legal ramifications of this neighborhood dispute could have made for a dry read, but Sachs maintains a wry tone and delivers every detail delightfully. —Longreads, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Kids Definition

ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌram-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or process of branching

2

: outgrowth sense 1

the ramifications of the decision

Medical Definition

ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌram-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or process of branching

specifically : the mode of arrangement of branches

2

: a branch or offshoot from a main stock or channel

the ramification of an artery

also : the resulting branched structure

make visible the whole ramification of the dendrite