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1. Derived from, based on or imitating something else
   "a derivative process"; "a highly derivative prose style"

1. The result of mathematical differentiation; the instantaneous change of one quantity relative to another; df(x)/dx
   - derived function, differential coefficient, differential, first derivative
    
2. A compound obtained from, or regarded as derived from, another compound
    
3. (law) a financial instrument whose value is based on another security
   - derivative instrument
    
4. (linguistics) a word that is derived from another word
   "'electricity' is a derivative of 'electric'"

Derived forms: derivatives

See also: derived

Type of: calculation, chemical compound, compound, computation, figuring, instrument, legal document, legal instrument, official document, reckoning, word

Encyclopedia: Derivative