offset

The definition of an offset is something that is used to balance something else.

(noun)

An example of an offset is coconut milk which can be added to a curry dish to minimize the spicy taste.

See offset in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

something that is set off, or has sprung or developed, from something else; offshoot; extension; branch; spur
anything that balances, counteracts, or compensates for something else; compensation
Rare outset
Archit. a ledge or recess formed in a wall by a reduction in its thickness above
Bot. a side shoot that takes root and starts a new plant
Elec. a branch off a main power line
Mech. a curve or bend in a metal bar, pipe, etc. to permit it to pass an obstruction
Printing
1. offset printing
2. an impression made by this process
3. an ink smudge transferred from a freshly printed sheet to the one next to it
Surveying a short distance measured at right angles from the main line to help in computing the area of an irregular plot of ground

adjective

transitive verb offset, offsetting

to balance, complement, counteract, compensate for, etc.
to make an offset in
Printing
1. to make (an impression) by offset printing
2. to smudge with an offset

intransitive verb

See offset in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

An agent, element, or thing that balances, counteracts, or compensates for something else.
One thing set off or developed from something else.
The start or initial stage; the outset.
Architecture A ledge or recess in a wall formed by a reduction in thickness above; a setoff.
Botany A shoot that develops laterally at the base of a plant, often rooting to form a new plant.
Geology A spur of a mountain range or hills.
A bend in a pipe, bar, or other straight continuous piece made to allow it to pass around an obstruction.
A short distance measured perpendicularly from the main line in surveying, used to help in calculating the area of an irregular plot.
A descendant of a race or family; an offshoot.
Printing
a. An unintentional or faulty transfer of wet ink from a printed sheet to another surface in contact with it. Also called setoff.
b. Offset printing.

verb (ôfˈsĕtˌ, ŏfˈ-, ôf-sĕtˈ, ŏf-) off·set, off·set·ting, off·sets

verb, transitive

To counterbalance, counteract, or compensate for: fringe benefits designed to offset low salaries.
Printing
a. To cause (printed matter) to transfer or smear onto another surface.
b. To produce by offset printing.
To make or form an offset in (a wall, bar, or pipe).

verb, intransitive