Definition of DERIVE

derive

Verb

Verb Forms: derived, deriving, derives

  • To obtain something from a specific source or origin.
  • reason by deduction; establish by deduction
  • obtain
    • "derive pleasure from one's garden"
  • come from
    • "The present name derives from an older form"
  • develop or evolve from a latent or potential state
  • come from; be connected by a relationship of blood, for example
  • To obtain or receive (something) from something else.
  • To deduce (a conclusion) by reasoning.
  • To find the derivation of (a word or phrase).
  • To create (a compound) from another by means of a reaction.
  • To originate or stem (from).
  • To turn the course of (water, etc.); to divert and distribute into subordinate channels.
  • To differentiate (a function).

Examples

  • Her excellent organisation skills derive from her time as a secretary in the army.
  • Players often DERIVE new words by adding prefixes or suffixes to existing ones.
  • Reading books is the best way to derive knowledge.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English deriven, from Old French deriver, from Latin dērīvō (“to lead, turn, or draw off (a liquid), draw off, derive”), from dē (“away”) + rīvus (“a stream”); see rival. Unrelated to arrive.

Scrabble Score: 10

derive: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
derive: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
derive: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 11

derive: valid Words With Friends Word