DERIVATIVE Synonyms: 53 Similar and Opposite Words

derivative 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of derivative

as in secondary

taken or created from something original or basic a derivative style taken from earlier painters

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derivative

2 of 2

noun

di-ˈri-və-tiv

as in derivation

something that naturally develops or is developed from something else the whole field of industrial robots is a derivative of technology developed for the space program

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of derivative

Adjective

Its derivative rankings make the same point from another angle. — Janakiram Msv, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 That has made download and derivative-model figures one measure of influence in the US-China AI race, as Chinese developers including Alibaba push capable models that are relatively cheap and easy to adapt. — Saritha Rai, Fortune, 15 Aug. 2026

Noun

Featured in over-the-counter topical products, the vitamin A derivative is found ubiquitously in anti-aging skin-care products, selected for its ability to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen. — Ellie Davis, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026 The Scoop Saudi Arabia’s stock exchange has revamped derivatives trading rules in a bid to attract more foreign investors and increase liquidity, as the bourse looks to kick-start trading activity in the wake of the Iran war. — Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for derivative

Recent Examples of Synonyms for derivative

Adjective

This looks suitable for use as a storage area or secondary bedroom.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 30 Aug. 2026
Those were the two most experienced members of their secondary.

— Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 30 Aug. 2026

Definition of secondary

Noun

Many forms of divination have been practiced historically in Africa, but divination techniques found in Hoodoo have sometimes been of European derivation; for instance, Hoodoo frequently employs cartomancy, or divination using playing cards.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026
And woven into every page and at each chapter heading are gorgeous language derivations.

— The Know, Denver Post, 4 June 2026

Definition of derivation

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derivations

derivative

derivatives

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“Derivative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/derivative. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of derivative

adjective

noun

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