Category:Offset

Off"set`, n. Etym: [off + set. Cf. Set-off.]

Defn: in general, that which is set off, from, before, or against, Something; as: --

1. (bot.)

Defn: a short prostrate shoot, which takes root and produces a tuft Of leaves, etc. See illust. of houseleek.

2. A sum, account, or value set off against another sum or account, As an equivalent; hence, anything which is given in exchange or Retaliation; a set-off.

3. A spur from a range of hills or mountains.

4. (arch.)

Defn: a horizontal ledge on the face of a wall, formed by a Diminution of its thickness, or by the weathering or upper surface of A part built out from it; -- called also set-off.

5. (surv.)

Defn: a short distance measured at right angles from a line actually Run to some point in an irregular boundary, or to some object.

6. (mech.)

Defn: an abrupt bend in an object, as a rod, by which one part is Turned aside out of line, but nearly parallel, with the rest; the Part thus bent aside.

7. (print.)

Defn: a more or less distinct transfer of a printed page or picture To the opposite page, when the pages are pressed together before the Ink is dry or when it is poor. Offset staff (surv.), a rod, usually Ten links long, used in measuring offsets.

Offset Off*set", v. t. [imp. & p. p. Offset; p. pr. & vb. n. Offsetting.]

1. To set off; to place over against; to balance; as, to offset one Account or charge against another.

2. To form an offset in, as in a wall, rod, pipe, etc.

Offset Off"set, v. i. (printing)

Defn: to make an offset.