ramification

noun

ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌra-mə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce ramification (audio)
Synonyms of ramification
1
a
: branch, offshoot
b
: a branched structure
2
a
: the act or process of branching
b
: arrangement of branches (as on a plant)
3
: consequence, outgrowth
the ramifications of the decision

Examples of ramification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 2018 World Series champions were already loaded heading into deadline season, but the addition of Nathan Eovaldi had huge ramifications in both the short and long term. — Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 2 Aug. 2026 Wrestling with his role in Dez’s downfall does a number on our hero, the ramifications of which are felt throughout Season 2. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 2 Aug. 2026 This issue has major ramifications across rare disease drug development, as sponsors need predictability to utilize innovative tools such as platform designation or even basket trials. — Kat Bryant Knudson, STAT, 31 July 2026 That being said, the ramifications are a whole lot larger and deserve a moment of reflective consideration. — Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for ramification

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of ramification was in 1578

Rhymes for ramification

See All Rhymes for ramification

Browse Nearby Words

ramie hemp
ramification
ramiform pit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ramification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ramification. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ramification

noun
ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌram-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce ramification (audio)
1
: the act or process of branching
2
: outgrowth sense 1
the ramifications of the decision

Medical Definition

ramification

noun
ram·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌram-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce ramification (audio)
1
: the act or process of branching
specifically : the mode of arrangement of branches
2
: a branch or offshoot from a main stock or channel
the ramification of an artery
also : the resulting branched structure
make visible the whole ramification of the dendrite

More from Merriam-Webster on ramification

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for ramification

Nglish: Translation of ramification for Spanish Speakers

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