ramification

American  

[ram-uh-fi-key-shuhn] / ˌræm ə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

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.

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ramification British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of ramification

1670–80; < Middle French < Medieval Latin rāmificāt ( us ) (past participle of rāmificāre to ramify ) + Middle French -ion -ion

Example Sentences

But the economic ramifications of the case were at the forefront of the justices’ minds.

From The Wall Street Journal

“And not really thinking about, oh, the ramifications of how many people have been captains before me. In a way, that’s just not my business.”

From Los Angeles Times

The potential ramifications of a fallout over Greenland are huge – but it is unclear how Washington intends to handle Wednesday's meeting.

From BBC

The administration is at its own-designated fork in the road, with any decision carrying momentous ramifications.

From The Wall Street Journal

Altogether, Baltimore’s shake-up will have dramatic ramifications across the sport.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• complication
• consequence
• upshot