offset
|off/set|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɔːfˌsɛt/
🇬🇧
/ˈɒfˌsɛt/
counterbalance
Etymology
Etymology Information
'offset' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'offsetten,' where 'off-' meant 'away' and 'setten' meant 'to set.'
Historical Evolution
'offsetten' transformed into the modern English word 'offset' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to set off or start,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'counterbalance or compensate.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a counterbalance or compensating equivalent.
The company used carbon credits as an offset for its emissions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to counterbalance or compensate for something.
The gains offset the losses.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39