Meaning of the word derivation in English

What does derivation mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

derivation

US /ˌder.əˈveɪ.ʃən/
UK /ˌder.ɪˈveɪ.ʃən/

Noun

1.

the obtaining or developing of something from a source or origin

Example:
The word 'democracy' has its derivation from Greek.
The derivation of this chemical compound is complex.
2.

the formation of a word from another word or root

Example:
The derivation of 'unhappy' from 'happy' involves a prefix.
Linguists study the derivation of words across languages.