Definitions of derivative:

  • noun:   (linguistics) a word that is derived from another word
    Example: "`electricity' is a derivative of `electric'"
  • noun:   the result of mathematical differentiation; the instantaneous change of one quantity relative to another; df(x)/dx
  • noun:   a financial instrument whose value is based on another security
  • adjective:   resulting from or employing derivation
    Example: "A derivative process"