branch Definition
- 1a part of a tree that grows out from the trunk or from a bough
- 2a local office or bureau of a large organization, especially a bank or government department
- 3a division of a family, school of thought, or activity
Using branch: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "branch" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The tree's branches were heavy with fruit.
Example
She works at the bank's branch in the city center.
Example
The company has branches all over the world.
Example
The biology department has several research branches.
branch Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for branch
- division
- limb
- shoot
- offshoot
- section
Antonyms for branch
- trunk
- root
Idioms Using branch
out on a limb
in a vulnerable or risky position, often used when someone takes a bold or unpopular stance
Example
She went out on a limb and invested all her savings in the startup.
the long arm of the law
the far-reaching power and influence of the police or legal system
Example
Even though he moved to a different country, he couldn't escape the long arm of the law.
on the branch
crazy or insane
Example
After staying up all night studying, I feel like I'm on the branch.
Phrases with branch
branch out
to expand or diversify, especially in terms of business or interests
Example
After years of working in finance, he decided to branch out and start his own business.
olive branch
a symbol of peace or reconciliation
Example
He offered an olive branch to his former business partner in hopes of mending their relationship.
branch of knowledge
a field of study or expertise
Example
Psychology is a branch of knowledge that deals with the human mind and behavior.
Origins of branch
from Old French 'branche', meaning 'twig'
Summary: branch in Brief
The term 'branch' [bræntʃ] refers to a part of a tree that grows out from the trunk or from a bough. It also denotes a local office or bureau of a large organization, especially a bank or government department, and a division of a family, school of thought, or activity. The phrase 'branch out' means to expand or diversify, while 'olive branch' is a symbol of peace or reconciliation. 'On the branch' is an informal idiom meaning crazy or insane.