Words / B2

di-RYV/dɪˈraɪv/

To derive is to get something from a source, or to come from it: derive from Latin / from experience, or derive benefit / pleasure from — more formal than come from or get. In science you derive a formula. Derivation is the noun in linguistics; derivative as an adjective can mean unoriginal.

Meaning

To get something from a source, or to come from it.

Examples

• “Many English words derive from Latin.”
• “A good deal of her confidence derives from preparation.”
• “They derived little benefit from the extra meeting.”

Good to know

derive from + source. derive benefit / pleasure from. Formal come from.

Near in meaning

come from

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