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

The backward-forward structure creates entwined tracks of suspense between the outcome of the Andrew relationship and the expected ramifications of what’s assumed to be a revealing letter.

From Los Angeles Times

The supervisors’ request to cross-reference voter rolls with pet records also comes as California heads into a special election in November with potentially significant political ramifications for the rest of the country.

From Los Angeles Times

A bigger question concerns the ramifications of the $100,000 fee.

From Los Angeles Times

"It was fantastic, but it was just really the beginning. We didn't know it at the time but the ramifications of that victory were going to rumble on for years to come."

From BBC

Lady Mary must cope with the isolating social ramifications of being divorced and targeted by a con man.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• complication 
• consequence 
• upshot