'derivative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'derivativus,' where 'de-' meant 'down from' and 'rivus' meant 'stream.'

'derivativus' transformed into the French word 'dérivatif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'derivative' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to draw off or away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'something derived from another source.'