Glossary of Linguistic Terms

Derivative

Definition: 

A derivative is a stem that is formed by combining a root with an affix that adds a component of meaning that is more than just inflectional.

The meaning of a derivative is determined by its context, not its parts.

Introduction: 

In the lexical database, a derivative is usually entered as a subentry. Only irregular, semantic derivatives are entered as separate major entries.

Discussion: 

A derivative is a stem formed by derivation, a morphosyntactic operation.

Comparison: 
Here are some kinds of derivatives:
  • Grammatical derivatives

    Example:
    • Nominalized stems, such as encouragement from encourage
    • Adverbialized stems, such as courageously from courageous
  • Semantic derivatives

    Example:

    nominalized stems, such as generation from generate

 

 

Also Known As: 
Derived form
Derived stem