ramification-n; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: the act or process of branching, forking

Commentary: RAMIFICATION[+activity][+process][+branching]

The Japanese gardner did some beautiful ramification of John's bonsai trees.
Nerve growth factor (NGF) enhanced the ramification process.

WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: a structure that is subdivided via branches

Commentary: RAMIFICATION[+form][+structure][+subordinate][+branched]
NOTE: includes physical and abstract/social structures

His is an extended family with its ramifications of in-laws and third cousins.
This diagram shows the ramification of the superficial branch of the radial nervus.

WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2, 4

Sense Number 3: a complicating consequence of a prior event or state

Commentary: RAMIFICATION[+state][+consequence][+complicating]

Any change is bound to have legal ramifications.
What would be the ramifications of the Canadians establishing a deep water military port there?

WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3