Definition & Meaning of "branch"

Branch

NOUN

a part of a tree divided into some other parts on which the leaves grow

Example

The children climbed the sturdy branch of the oak tree, enjoying the view from high up.

She carefully pruned the overgrown branches to maintain the tree ’s shape and health.

The storm caused several branches to fall from the trees in the backyard, creating a mess to clean up.

a subdivision or a group of members of an extended family sharing the same ancestors

Example

The reunion brought together every branch of the extended family, some of whom had n't seen each other in decades.

The Smith family has a long lineage, with each branch tracing back to a common ancestor who immigrated in the 1800s.

Each branch of the family contributed stories and photographs to the comprehensive family history book.

a store, office, etc. that belongs to a larger business, organization, etc. and is representing it in a certain area

Example

The bank opened a new branch in the city center to better serve its growing customer base.

The clothing retailer has several branches across the country, each offering a wide selection of fashion items.

The company ’s branch in New York handles all the east coast operations and customer service inquiries.

a part of a forked or branching shape

of or pertaining to or resembling the leaf of a plant

any projection that is thought to resemble a human arm

a smaller part of a river that is separated from the main and larger part

Example

The canoe drifted down a quiet branch of the river, away from the bustling main channel.

The fishermen preferred the branch of the river, where the water was calmer and teemed with fish.

During the flood, the branch of the river swelled, inundating the surrounding fields.

a natural consequence of development

a secondary or lesser-used road or path that diverges from a main road or path

What is a "branch"?

A branch is a smaller road or path that splits off from a main road or trail. It typically serves as a secondary route and may lead to a less traveled or less important location. Branches can be found in both rural and urban areas, offering access to neighborhoods, small towns, or specific destinations. While not as frequently used as the main roads, branches play an important role in providing alternative routes and connecting different areas.

Example

We took a left turn onto a narrow branch off the highway, leading us to a scenic route through the mountains.

The hiking trail splits into several branches, each leading to different parts of the forest.

The old farmhouse was hidden away down a winding branch that few knew about.

a subdivision of a larger system or concept

Example

Mathematics has many branches, including algebra and geometry.

She specializes in the branch of biology that studies marine life.

Philosophy is a broad field with several branches, like ethics and metaphysics.

to branch

VERB

to divide into two or more separate paths or divisions