derivative

²derivative

adj

Definition of DERIVATIVE

1

: formed by derivation <a derivative word>

2

: made up of or marked by derived elements

3

: lacking originality : banal

— de·riv·a·tive·ly adverb

— de·riv·a·tive·ness noun

Examples of DERIVATIVE

1. A number of critics found the film derivative and predictable.
2. His style seems too derivative of Hemingway.

First Known Use of DERIVATIVE

circa 1530

Related to DERIVATIVE

Synonyms: secondary, secondhand

Antonyms: basic, original

Related Words: unoriginal; consequent, resultant

Near Antonyms: fundamental, nonderivative; first, primary

[+]more[-]hide