Meaning & use
derivative
In calculus, a measure of how a function's output changes as its input changes; the rate of change.
See it in a sentence
To find the slope of the curve at that point, first calculate the derivative of the function.
The derivative of position with respect to time gives you velocity.
A note on using this word
As an adjective, "derivative" describes work that is unoriginal and closely imitates another source.
Words with a similar meaning
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Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. adjective
Imitative of the work of another artist or writer; lacking originality.
Critics dismissed the band's second album as derivative of their earlier, more inventive sound.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “derivative”, then compare your use with the examples above.