derive
7 synonyms for derive, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To get or obtain something from a particular source.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use derive
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
derive pleasure
derive from
derive a formula
Etymology
From Old French deriver, from Latin derivare, "to draw off (water) from a stream," from de- + rivus, "stream" — the same root as "river" and "rival".
Full origin of derive →Frequently asked questions
What does “derive” mean?
The word “derive” means to get or obtain something from a particular source. In plain terms, to get something from a source, or work out a conclusion from evidence.
How do you pronounce “derive”?
“Derive” is pronounced dih-RYV (/dɪˈɹaɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “derive” in a sentence?
Here is “derive” used in a sentence: “She derives great satisfaction from teaching.”
What part of speech is “derive”?
“Derive” is a verb.
Where does the word “derive” come from?
The word “derive” comes from Latin. From Old French deriver, from Latin derivare, "to draw off (water) from a stream," from de- + rivus, "stream" — the same root as "river" and "rival".
Is “derive” a common word?
“Derive” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “derive” have?
“Derive” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to get or obtain something from a particular source.
