Definition of offset

• n. - In general, that which is set off, from, before, or against, something
• n. - A short prostrate shoot, which takes root and produces a tuft of leaves, etc. See Illust. of Houseleek.
• n. - 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.
• n. - A spur from a range of hills or mountains.
• n. - 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.
• n. - A short distance measured at right angles from a line actually run to some point in an irregular boundary, or to some object.
• n. - 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.
• n. - 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.
• imp. & p. p. - of Offset
• v. t. - To set off; to place over against; to balance; as, to offset one account or charge against another.
• v. t. - To form an offset in, as in a wall, rod, pipe, etc.
• v. i. - To make an offset.