DictionaryhiveSplitting off
verb

hive

To separate a part into an independent group.

The company hives off its research division into a separate business.

Etymology

The verb draws on bees leaving a hive to establish another colony. Hiving off part of an organization similarly separates it into an independently operating group.

More examples

  • Several members hived off to form their own organization.
  • The nonprofit plans to hive off its tutoring program as an independent charity.
  • They are hiving off the repair department as a separate company.

Forms

hive · hives · hived · hiving

Similar words

separate
Does not necessarily imply creating a new, independent group.
detach
Emphasizes breaking a connection, not forming an independent group.