branch
UK: brɑːntʃ | US: bræntʃ
n. a part of a tree that grows out from the trunk
n. a division or office of a large organization (e.g., bank, government)
n. a subdivision of a subject or system
v. to divide into smaller sections or directions
The word "branch" originates from the Old French branche, meaning "limb of a tree," which itself derives from Late Latin branca (animal's paw or foot). Over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically to include divisions of organizations or systems, reflecting the natural branching structure of trees. The spelling remained consistent, preserving the original morpheme "bran-" while the "-ch" suffix solidified in Middle English.
The bird built its nest on a high branch of the oak tree.
The company plans to open a new branch in Tokyo next year.
Mathematics is a branch of science that deals with numbers and logic.
The river branches into two smaller streams near the valley.
Her research branches into several interdisciplinary fields.