first derivative

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. the derivative of a function.

   Velocity is the first derivative of distance with respect to time.

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Etymology

Origin of first derivative

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

Tulu and Bulu were no longer recognizably identical—but they shared the first derivative of identity.

From The New Yorker • May 2, 2016

Determine the first derivative of the Holling type I equation and explain physically what the derivative implies.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

Therefore, by the first derivative test, f has a local minimum at x = b.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

Using the second derivative can sometimes be a simpler method than using the first derivative.

From Textbooks • Mar. 30, 2016

The first derivative cause which we found under this was an accumulation of facts which overburden the mind and destroy its power.

From The Continental Monthly, Vol. 5, No. 3, March, 1864 Devoted to Literature and National Policy by Various