Definition

Relating to the process of forming new words or forms from existing ones.

Example

In linguistics, derivational morphemes change the meaning or grammatical category of a word.

Conversation

I was reading about how derivational morphemes work in language studies.

Oh really? What did you find interesting about them?

I learned that they change the meaning of a word by adding prefixes or suffixes.

That’s cool! I love how flexible language can be with derivational forms.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Derivational → It is formed from "derivare" (meaning to draw off or to lead away) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "derivational" refers to something that relates to the process of deriving or drawing off from a source.

Memory Tip

Think of 'drawing off' from a source ('derivare') to remember that 'derivational' relates to the process of deriving.

Visually Confused Words