{Derivative circulation}, a modification of the circulation
found in some parts of the body, in which the arteries
empty directly into the veins without the interposition of
capillaries. --Flint. -- {De*riv"a*tive*ly}, adv. --
{De*riv"a*tive*ness}, n.
2. (Gram.) A word formed from another word, by a prefix or
suffix, an internal modification, or some other change; a
word which takes its origin from a root.
3. (Mus.) A chord, not fundamental, but obtained from another
by inversion; or, vice versa, a ground tone or root
implied in its harmonics in an actual chord.
4. (Med.) An agent which is adapted to produce a derivation
(in the medical sense).
5. (Math.) A derived function; a function obtained from a
given function by a certain algebraic process.
Note: Except in the mode of derivation the derivative is the
same as the differential coefficient. See {Differential
coefficient}, under {Differential}.
6. (Chem.) A substance so related to another substance by
modification or partial substitution as to be regarded as
derived from it; thus, the amido compounds are derivatives
of ammonia, and the hydrocarbons are derivatives of
methane, benzene, etc.