Dictionary meaning:
c/o Dictionary.com
de·riv·a·tive (adjective)
Resulting from or employing derivation: a derivative word; a derivative process. Copied or adapted from others: a highly derivative prose style.
de·riv·a·tive (noun)
Something derived.
Linguistics. A word formed from another by derivation, such as electricity from electric.
Mathematics.
The limiting value of the ratio of the change in a function to the corresponding change in its independent variable.
The instantaneous rate of change of a function with respect to its variable.
The slope of the tangent line to the graph of a function at a given point. Also called differential coefficient, fluxion.
Chemistry. A compound derived or obtained from another and containing essential elements of the parent substance.
Simply, A Derivative is a rate of change.
Currently reading: Leithold's Calculus
Currently feeling: accomplished