derive

[dih-rahyv]

verb (used with object)

derived, deriving 

1. to receive or obtain from a source or origin (usually followed byfrom ).

   Synonyms: net, reap, gather, glean, attain, gain

2. to trace from a source or origin.

   English words derived from German.

3. to reach or obtain by reasoning; deduce; infer.

4. Chemistry.,  to produce or obtain (a substance) from another.

5. Grammar.,  to create (a new linguistic form) by adding affixes to or changing the shape of a root or base.

   The word “runner” is derived from “run.”

verb (used without object)

derived, deriving 

1. to come from a source or origin; originate (often followed byfrom ).

derive

/ dɪˈraɪv /

verb

1. (usually foll by from) to draw or be drawn (from) in source or origin; trace or be traced

2. (tr) to obtain by reasoning; deduce; infer

3. (tr) to trace the source or development of

4. (usually foll by from) to produce or be produced (from) by a chemical reaction

5. maths to obtain (a function) by differentiation

Other Word Forms

• derivable adjective
• deriver noun
• nonderivable adjective
• prederive verb (used with object)
• underivable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of derive¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English diriven, deriven “to flow, draw from, spring,” from Anglo-French, Old French deriver, from Latin dērīvāre “to lead off,” equivalent to dē- de- + rīv(us) “a stream” + -āre infinitive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of derive¹

C14: from Old French deriver to spring from, from Latin dērīvāre to draw off, from _de- + rīvus a stream

Example Sentences

The figures for small boat crossings and the average number of people per boat are derived from the UK Home Office's daily timeseries.

Read more on BBC

Lacking until now, however, has been a more precise understanding of how spermine intervenes in nerve-damaging processes - understanding that might make it possible to derive medical benefits from it.

Read more on Science Daily

The China-backed miner derives 74% of its total revenue as of 2024 from the metal and is increasing its copper assets, making it an ideal proxy to copper markets, she says.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The name, Cartel of the Suns, derives from the sun insignia found on the uniforms of Venezuelan soldiers, much like stars on U.S. military uniforms.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A nearly eight-foot stack of 26 enlarged white ceramic plates, which derive from dinnerware the artist found in a shop, stands as a mind-boggling pillar.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acquire 
• assume 
• collect 
• determine 
• develop 
• evolve 
• extract 
• glean 
• infer 
• obtain 
• receive