Derive

Quick meaning: Derive is a verb meaning (transitive) To obtain or receive (something) from something else.

Meaning

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

More Meanings

1. (transitive, logic) To deduce (a conclusion) by reasoning.
2. (transitive, linguistics) To find the derivation of (a word or phrase).
3. (transitive, chemistry) To create (a compound) from another by means of a reaction.
4. (intransitive) To originate or stem (from).
5. To turn the course of (water, etc.); to divert and distribute into subordinate channels.
6. (transitive, mathematics, proscribed) To differentiate (a function).

Example Sentences

Reading books is the best way to derive knowledge.

Her excellent organisation skills derive from her time as a secretary in the army.

Britannia's firebox would appear to have derived from those of the Bulleid Pacifics, which it closely resembles.

Bob the aforesaid, and his present chances of deriving a competent independence from the honourable profession to which he had devoted himself.

Word Forms

• derives
• deriving
• derived

Synonyms for derive

Depending on context, synonyms include educe, infer, deduce, come, descend, deduct.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include deduce, infer, educe, come, gain, deduct.

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