set off 1 of 2

verb

Definition of set offnext
as in to trigger
to cause to function set off a bomb

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

setoff

2 of 2

noun

ˈset-ˌȯf How to pronounce setoff (audio)
as in ornament
something that decorates or beautifies the architect used stone carvings as setoffs for the building's marble facing

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of set off
Verb
His arrest has set off intense outrage, with protesters gathering outside the ICE New York City Field Office on Monday afternoon to demand his release from custody. — Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 10 Mar. 2025 This set off years of conspiracy theories about how powerful individuals connected to him might have ordered him murdered to protect themselves, though none have been substantiated. — Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 8 Mar. 2025
Noun
That setoff a worldwide hunt for the impact site. — Roni Dengler, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2019 See All Example Sentences for set off
Recent Examples of Synonyms for set off
  1. trigger
  2. ornament
  3. activate
  4. ornamentation
  5. spark
  6. decoration
  7. drive
  8. garnishment
Verb
  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to resume bombardments has triggered protests in Israel as 59 hostages are still held in Gaza, with 24 of them believed to be still alive.
    — Nidal al-Mughrabi, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2025
  • This seemed to trigger Kanye, who dropped Bully in the middle of an X rant about Carti, with Kanye also claiming Carti snubbed him on Music.
    — Justin Curto, Vulture, 19 Mar. 2025
Definition of trigger
Noun
  • This year, players can build and customize a shinobi hideout, including a forge for weapon upgrades and aesthetic ornaments via the Sekiryu Hideout Pack.
    — Brian Mazique, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
  • Some popular categories include: Table decorations: These include table runners, candles, flowers, centerpieces and ornaments.
    — BestReviews, The Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2025
Definition of ornament
Verb
  • The system can only be activated under certain driving conditions, requiring specific environmental and traffic criteria to be met.
    — Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, Fox News, 13 Mar. 2025
  • Carsley said during his spell as interim coach that White still had his ‘do not disturb’ status activated after Southgate’s departure last summer.
    — Oliver Kay, The Athletic, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of activate
Noun
  • In an era where contemporary architecture often relies on cladding and heavy ornamentation, Paradero celebrates simplicity.
    — Natalie Stoclet, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025
  • Simple forms and geometries abound, with a distinct lack of more organic elements like curved shapes, soft textures, and overly decorative ornamentation.
    — Lauren Gallow, Architectural Digest, 10 Jan. 2025
Definition of ornamentation
Verb
  • One sailor was presumed dead in the collision, which sparked fears of significant environmental damage.
    — Jill Lawless, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2025
  • Nearly 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage in the attack that sparked the war in Gaza, according to the Israeli government, and more than 48,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in Israeli strikes, according to Gaza health officials.
    — Daniel Estrin, NPR, 11 Mar. 2025
Definition of spark
Noun
  • Today, ancient Greco-Roman statues housed in museums are typically stark white and devoid of decoration.
    — Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Mar. 2025
  • Helene roared through the building’s lower level, carrying off freezers, the walk-in cooler, thousands of dollars worth of Christmas decorations, and even the walls.
    — Hanna Raskin, Southern Living, 20 Mar. 2025
Definition of decoration
Verb
  • The decision to focus on Bernstein and von Karajan was driven by Danish’s fascination with their contrasting reputations and profound cultural influences.
    — Court Stroud, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • This is why machines driven by biological muscles have always been rather small and simple—up to a couple centimeters long and typically with only a single actuating joint.
    — Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 15 Mar. 2025
Definition of drive
Noun
  • Legal action: In extreme cases, unpaid debts can result in legal action, such as a lawsuit or wage garnishment.
    — Kevin Harper, Sacramento Bee, 21 Mar. 2025
  • Getty Images For roughly the past five years, federal student loan borrowers who fell behind on their bills didn’t need to worry about the usual consequences, including the garnishment of their wages and retirement benefits.
    — Annie Nova, CNBC, 24 Jan. 2025
Definition of garnishment

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Cite this Entry

“Set off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/set%20off. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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