derivative 1 of 2

Definition of derivativenext
as in secondary
taken or created from something original or basic a derivative style taken from earlier painters

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

derivative

2 of 2

noun

Example Sentences

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
Kratom, and its more powerful derivative 7-OH, are drugs that have been available over the counter at vape shops, head shops and convenience stores. Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026 Whiplash Most of 'Masters of the Universe''s heroes and villains were one-offs, but some were extremely derivative of other franchises. Richard Edwards, Space.com, 4 June 2026
Noun
The yin and yang found in 21 Savage’s menacing whispers over the bass and drums, derivative of Tay Keith’s style, and his stark threats over Metro Boomin’s familiar keys create atmospheric success. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 20 June 2026 The war in Iran has pushed up the price of crude oil and derivatives like gasoline, diesel and jet fuel — all of which have been making headlines for months. Camila Domonoske, NPR, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for derivative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for derivative
Adjective
  • Phase 2/3 Study 302 topline results released April 27, 2026 met all primary and key secondary endpoints with robust hair growth in both once-daily and twice-daily arms.
    Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 22 June 2026
  • Phase 2/3 Study 302 topline results released April 27, 2026 met all primary and key secondary endpoints, with robust hair growth seen in both once-daily and twice-daily dosing arms.
    Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • And woven into every page and at each chapter heading are gorgeous language derivations.
    The Know, Denver Post, 4 June 2026
  • Many derivations of ad-hoc street meat can be found in every nook and cranny of Los Angeles, and which is the best one, or the closest best one, is a matter of considerable inquiry and opinion across the city.
    Jordan Michelman, Wired News, 21 May 2026
Noun
  • While Apple shares were up more than 4% in trading Friday, all of the derivate plays were trading in the red.
    Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 1 May 2026
  • With unique enough lore and a unique style, Saxon avoids making a derivate fable.
    Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 27 Jan. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Derivative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/derivative. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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