GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 3 definitions

1.       
   Offset , n. [Off + set. Cf. Set-off.] In general, that which is set off, from, before, or against, something; as: --
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   (Bot.) A short prostrate shoot, which takes root and produces a tuft of leaves, etc. See Illust. of Houseleek.
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   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.
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   A spur from a range of hills or mountains.
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   (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.
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   (Surv.) A short distance measured at right angles from a line actually run to some point in an irregular boundary, or to some object.
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   (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.
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   (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; an unintended transfer of an image from one page to another; called also setoff.
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   +PJC
   See offset printing.
   PJC
   Offset staff (Surv.), a rod, usually ten links long, used in measuring offsets. 
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2.       
   Offset , v. t. [imp. & p. p. Offset; p. pr. & vb. n. Offsetting.]
   To set off; to place over against; to balance; as, to offset one account or charge against another.
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   To form an offset in, as in a wall, rod, pipe, etc.
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3.       
   Offset, v. i. (Printing) To make an offset.
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