noun

offing

O-fihng

Offing (noun) means the near future, especially something expected soon. Chiefly used in the phrase "in the offing". Example: “With layoffs in the offing, morale at the office dropped.”

noun

The near future, especially something expected soon. Chiefly used in the phrase "in the offing".

"With layoffs in the offing, morale at the office dropped."

The part of the visible sea furthest from the shore.

"A ship appeared in the offing just before dusk."

How to use offing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAlmost always used in "in the offing" — meaning something is likely to happen soon.

Common pairings

in the offing

Word forms

offings plural

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With layoffs in the _____, morale at the office dropped.

Etymology

From off plus -ing; originally a nautical term for the distant sea, later extended to mean "on the horizon" in a figurative sense.

Rhymes for offing

scoffing

See all rhymes for offing →

Frequently asked questions

What does “offing” mean?

The word “offing” means the near future, especially something expected soon. Chiefly used in the phrase "in the offing". In plain terms, almost always used in "in the offing" — meaning something is likely to happen soon.

How do you pronounce “offing”?

“Offing” is pronounced O-fihng (/ˈɔfɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “offing” in a sentence?

Here is “offing” used in a sentence: “With layoffs in the offing, morale at the office dropped.”

What part of speech is “offing”?

“Offing” is a noun.

How many meanings does “offing” have?

“Offing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the near future, especially something expected soon. Chiefly used in the phrase "in the offing".