Definition of "derive" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To obtain or receive (something) from something else.

   • Reading books is the best way to derive knowledge.

2. (transitive, logic) To deduce (a conclusion) by reasoning.

3. (transitive, linguistics) To find the derivation of (a word or phrase).

4. (transitive, chemistry) To create (a compound) from another by means of a reaction.

5. (intransitive) To originate or stem (from).

   • Her excellent organisation skills derive from her time as a secretary in the army.

6. To turn the course of (water, etc.); to divert and distribute into subordinate channels.

   • For fear it [water] choke up the pits […] they [the workman] deriue it by other drains.

7. (transitive, mathematics, proscribed) To differentiate (a function).