Offspring

/ˈɔːf.sprɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a person's child or children.
She was proud of her offspring and their accomplishments.
descendants or young of particular organism.
The scientist studied the offspring of various animal species to understand their development.
something that is the result of something else, particularly in a creative or abstract sense.
The novel was the offspring of her years of research and passion for history.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English 'ofspring', from 'off' + 'spring'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

illegitimate offspring
A child born to parents who are not married to each other.
offspring of the mind
Creations or ideas that stem from mental effort or intellect.
become the offspring of
To result from a particular situation or influence.

Related Words

progenitor
A direct ancestor or parent.
descendant
A person, animal, or plant that is descended from a particular ancestor.
genetics
The study of genes and heredity, which influences offspring characteristics.

Slang Meanings

Kids or children.
I've got a couple of little ones – my offspring keep me busy!
An innovative creation or product.
That new app is the offspring of their brainstorming session.