Derive

Definition

Derive refers to the process of obtaining or receiving something from a particular source or origin. It can also mean tracing the origin of something, such as words, ideas, or substances, back to a specific source.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈraɪv/
• Respelling: dih-RYV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈraɪv/
• Respelling: dih-RYV

The pronunciation of "derive" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "derive" comes from the Latin word "derivare," meaning "to lead or draw off," which itself is derived from "de-" meaning "down from" and "rivus," meaning "stream." It entered Middle English in the late 14th century and has since evolved to describe the act of obtaining or tracing the origin of something.

Derivatives

• Derivation (noun)
• Derivative (adjective/noun)
• Derivable (adjective)
• Derived (adjective)
• Deriver (noun)

Synonyms

• Obtain
• Extract
• Originate

Antonyms

• Cause
• Invent
• Create

Usage

The term "derive" is commonly used in various fields, including science, linguistics, and philosophy. In science, it may refer to obtaining a substance from a source, such as deriving energy from the sun. In linguistics, it is used to explain the origin of words, while in philosophy or logic, it may refer to drawing conclusions from premises. The term is versatile and used in both formal and informal contexts.

Related Terms

• Source: The point of origin or beginning of something.
• Infer: To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.
• Deduce: To draw a conclusion based on the information or evidence provided.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To obtain something from a specified source: Refers to the process of gaining or receiving something from a particular origin.
  • Example: "The medicine is derived from a plant."
• To trace the origin of something: Refers to the act of determining where something comes from or how it evolved.
  • Example: "Many English words are derived from Latin."