Off"set` (?), n. [Off +
set. Cf. Set-off.] In general, that which is set
off, from, before, or against, something; as: --
1. (Bot.) 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.) 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.) 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.) 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.) 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.
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.
Off"set, v. i. (Printing)
To make an offset.
