Branches

/ˈbræn(t)ʃɪz/

nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

3 meanings
1

A primary division of a tree or shrub, arising from the trunk or a main limb.

/ˈbræn(t)ʃɪz/

nounneutralBeginner
General

A part of a tree or bush that grows out from the main stem.

The apple tree's branches were laden with fruit.

💡 Simply: A part of a tree that grows out from the main trunk.

More Examples

2

The strong branches held the weight of the snow.

How It's Used

Nature

"The oak tree had many strong branches."

Gardening

"He pruned the lower branches of the rose bush."

2

A local office or division of a larger organization.

/ˈbræn(t)ʃɪz/

nounneutralIntermediate
Business

A division or subordinate part of an organization.

Our company has branches across the country.

💡 Simply: A part of a bigger company.

More Examples

2

The local branch of the library is always busy.

How It's Used

Business

"The bank has branches in several cities."

Tip:Think of a tree's branches spreading out from the trunk, like a company's offices spreading out from headquarters.
3

To split or divide into two or more parts.

/brɑːntʃ/

verbneutralIntermediate
General

To divide into branches.

The road branches off into two directions.

💡 Simply: To split into different parts.

More Examples

2

The conversation branched into several interesting topics.

How It's Used

Mathematics

"The river branches into several smaller streams."

Tip:Imagine a river branching into smaller streams.

Idioms & expressions

on the branch

Something that is still in development or not fully realized.

"The project is still on the branch."

From Old French *branche, from Vulgar Latin *branca, diminutive of Latin bracchium "arm".

The word 'branches' has maintained consistent usage across various historical periods, primarily referring to parts of trees and later organizational divisions.

Memory tip

Think of a tree's arms branching out.

brancesbranchs

Usage

70%Spoken
30%Written