derive
dih-RYV
Derive (verb) means to get or obtain something from a particular source. Example: “She derives great satisfaction from teaching.”
verb
1
To get or obtain something from a particular source.
"She derives great satisfaction from teaching."
"The word "derive" itself derives from Latin."
"Most of the town's income is derived from tourism in the summer."
2
To reach a conclusion by reasoning from known facts.
"Scientists derived their theory from years of careful observation."
How to use derive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo get something from a source, or work out a conclusion from evidence.
Common mistake
Not related to "arrive", despite the similar sound.
Common pairings
derive pleasure
derive from
derive a formula
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- derives
- Past tense
- derived
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ great satisfaction from teaching.
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".
Related words
Rhymes for derive
See all rhymes for 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.
