A higher derivative refers to the derivative of a derivative in calculus. While the first derivative of a function measures its rate of change, the second derivative provides information about the curvature or concavity of the function. Higher derivatives can be calculated for any number of times, leading to the third, fourth, and so on, derivatives, each offering deeper insights into the behavior of the original function. Higher derivatives are particularly useful in various fields, including physics and engineering, where they help analyze motion and forces. For example, in Newton's laws of motion, the second derivative of position with respect to time gives acceleration, while the third derivative can indicate changes in acceleration, known as "jerk."