Definition for

derivative


In geology, derived from some other source; not native to the rock in which it is now found.

Derived; taken or having proceeded from another or something preceding; secondary: as, a derivative word; a derivative conveyance.

In biology, relating to derivation, or to the doctrine of derivation: as, the derivative theory.

In medicine, having a tendency to lessen inflammation or reduce a morbid process.

noun – In medicine, a therapeutic method or agent employed to lessen a morbid process in one part by producing a flow of blood or lymph to another part, as cupping, leeching, blisters, catharsis, etc.

noun – That which is derived; that which is deduced or comes by derivation from another.

noun – Specifically A word derived or formed either immediately from another, or remotely from a primitive or root: thus, ‘verb,’ ‘verbal,’ ‘verbose’ are derivatives of the Latin verbum; ‘duke,’ ‘duct,’ ‘adduce,’ ‘conduce,’ ‘conduct,’ ‘conduit,’ etc., are derivatives of the Latin ducere; ‘feeder’ is a derivative of ‘feed,’ and ‘feed’ a derivative of ‘food.’ See derivation, 3.

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