Bible Encyclopedias
Set Off (or Offset)

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

Set Off (Or Offset),

The part of a wall, etc., which is exposed horizontally when the portion above it is reduced in thickness. Set offs are not unfrequently covered, and in great measure concealed, by cornices or projecting moldings, but are more usually plain. In the latter case, in classical architecture, they are generally nearly or quite flat on the top, but in Gothic architecture are sloped, and in most instances have a projecting drip on the lower edge toe prevent the wet from running down the walls: this is especially observable in the set offs of buttresses.