Another word for the source or origin of a derivative

Question

Is there a word that means the same as the source or origin when generally referring to derivation (the process) or a derivative (the end result)?

Specifically one that would be textually similar to derive/derivation/derivative.

ex. "Derivation of [the source] produces 5 derivatives".

Considering the etymology of derive, the word source is appropriate even though it isn't "textually similar". — Lawrence, Commented Feb 2, 2016 at 14:33
Loosely speaking, derivation from cognates produces derivatives. — FumbleFingers, Commented Feb 2, 2016 at 15:11
Well, in this case, then the answer is no. I'm fairly certain you won't find a term that is 'textually similar' to derive in this context (meaning 'source'), because the word derive itself means 'flow from', this same 'flow' as a English river, which shares its root origin. You could make a stretch of a connection and use the term fundamental, which shares a root origin with fount, which is contextually related to river. :) — Tim Ward, Commented Feb 2, 2016 at 16:25

Zbyněk Dráb · Accepted Answer · 2016-02-02 15:03:50Z

1

This might completely off the mark, but how about "the original"?

answered Feb 2, 2016 at 15:03

Zbyněk Dráb

2971 silver badge10 bronze badges

1

+1 This surely works in copyright which concerns original works and derivative works.
– bib
Commented Feb 2, 2016 at 15:53
"original" is not textually similar to "derive", but it is to "origin" or "originate".
– StingyJack
Commented Feb 2, 2016 at 16:02
1

A textually similar word to "derive" with that meaning probably doesn't exist.
– Zbyněk Dráb
Commented Feb 2, 2016 at 16:21

Add a comment |

rkchl · Accepted Answer · 2016-02-02 15:41:19Z

0

"Derivation of the underlying (product) produces derivatives".

answered Feb 2, 2016 at 15:41

rkchl

6864 silver badges7 bronze badges

Add a comment |

2 Answers 2