Derived Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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derived

[dษชหˆraษชvd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

language

Obtained or received from a specified source.

Synonyms

extracted, obtained, received.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
derived

Used when something is developed or obtained from a specific source, often through reasoning or calculation.

  • The word 'biology' is derived from the Greek words 'bios' and 'logos'.
  • The data is derived from several different studies.
obtained

Used when something is acquired or gained, usually through effort or action.

  • She obtained her degree from a prestigious university.
  • The results were obtained after a series of tests.
received

Used when something is given or delivered to a person, usually in the context of communication or physical delivery.

  • She received a gift from her friend.
  • I received an email with the meeting details.
extracted

Used when something is removed or taken out from a larger whole, often through a physical or chemical process.

  • The juice is extracted from fresh oranges.
  • DNA was extracted from the blood samples.

Examples of usage

  • I derived much pleasure from the book.
  • The word is derived from Latin.
Context #2 | Verb

science

To obtain or trace the origin of (a word).

Synonyms

ascertain, trace, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
derived

Utilize when referring to something that has originated or been obtained from something else, such as a source or method.

  • The medicine is derived from natural herbs.
  • Her strength is derived from her supportive family.
trace

Appropriate for contexts that involve tracking or following the origin, development, or history of something.

  • They could trace the genealogy back to the 18th century.
  • The pathologist was able to trace the spread of the virus.
ascertain

Employ in situations where the goal is to find out or confirm information through investigation or examination.

  • The detective worked to ascertain the cause of the fire.
  • He couldnโ€™t ascertain the right answer without more data.
uncover

Best used when revealing something hidden or discovering something not previously known, often with an element of surprise or revelation.

  • The archaeologist uncovered ancient ruins.
  • Journalists worked to uncover the truth about the scandal.

Examples of usage

  • The word 'etymology' is derived from the Greek word 'etumos'.
  • Many English words are derived from French.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, traits or characteristics are said to be derived when they originate from ancestor species, showcasing evolution.
  • The concept of derived statistics in data science helps analysts understand information that comes from raw data.
  • In chemistry, a derived compound is created from a basic substance, demonstrating how new materials can emerge from existing ones.

Literature

  • Many modern novels and stories are derived from classic myths, highlighting how tales evolve over time.
  • The concept of derived themes in literature explores how underlying messages or motifs travel across different works.
  • Poetry often derives inspiration from nature, using imagery and emotions to reflect the beauty of the world.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous movie franchises derive from comic books, showcasing how creative ideas can transform and expand.
  • Music samples are often derived from earlier songs, blending past and present to create something new.
  • Video game sequels frequently derive their storylines from previous installments, enriching the player experience.

Psychology

  • In developmental psychology, behaviors can be derived from earlier childhood experiences, affecting adult personality.
  • Theories regarding motivation derive from the work of psychologists like Maslow, showing how human needs shape actions.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy derives its techniques from understanding how thoughts influence emotions and behaviors.

Origin of 'derived'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'derivare', meaning 'to draw off water from a stream'.
  • It entered the English language in the 14th century, extending the meaning from physical to abstract concepts.
  • Many academic fields, such as mathematics and linguistics, use 'derived' to indicate a process of obtaining or transforming information.

The word 'derived' comes from the Middle English word 'deriven', which in turn comes from the Old French word 'deriver', meaning 'to flow from'. The concept of derivation has been central to linguistics and etymology, where scholars study how words evolve and originate from different languages and sources. The process of deriving words allows us to understand the connections between languages and the historical development of words.


See also: derivable, derivation, derivative, derive.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,316, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.