Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Offset \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.