derive

verb

(transitive) To obtain or receive (something) from something else.

(intransitive) To originate or stem (from).

(transitive, logic) To deduce (a conclusion) by reasoning.

(transitive, linguistics) To find the derivation of (a word or phrase).

(transitive, chemistry) To create (a compound) from another by means of a reaction.

To turn the course of (water, etc.); to divert and distribute into subordinate channels.

(transitive, mathematics, proscribed) To differentiate (a function).

Roots

rivusriv- · Latin · stream

Synonyms for derive

deducev educev inferv gainn gleanv obtainv elicitv extractv reapv procurev

Synonyms & related words for derive

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Words related to derive

Explore words related to derive — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include etymologizing, derivable, derivation, deduct, derivational, educible, generate, extrapolate. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for derive

Common synonyms for derive include deduce, educe, infer, gain, glean, obtain, elicit, extract — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does derive come from?

The word derive breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root riv-, from Latin rivus (“stream”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.