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

Gandbhir’s film emphasizes the massive injustice of children being made to experience not just constant harassment by an adult, but wanton prejudice and, eventually, the ramifications of manslaughter.

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Yet, the First Brands breakdown may have ramifications extending beyond its effect on lenders.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Artists, acutely focused on the way we live now, can’t help paying close attention to the ramifications of AI not just in our work but in our notions of personhood.

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Macroeconomists are worried that if the gold rally is a sign of a bubble, it could burst — with dangerous ramification for the global economy.

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The most significant ramifications of this row may prove to be unrelated to the specifics of this case.

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Related Words

• complication 
• consequence 
• upshot