that is expected to become a permanent move.
The former Ipswich player, who played under George Burley at Portman Road,
made over 100 appearances for Sunderland and has had spells at Oldham, Wigan
and Marseille.
Director of football Murdo Mackay said: "We're delighted a player of Chris'
calibre is joining us - he is a great competitor, very experienced and will
be a valuable addition to the squad.
"He's also a necessary addition bearing in mind our injury problems."
The 31-year-old, who is comfortable in either full-back position, joins the
Rams on a temporary loan but he is expected to become a Derby player until
the end of the season once his contract with Leicester has been terminated.
Makin signed for Ipswich, from Sunderland, for £1.4m in the 2000/01 season.
He played in two UEFA Cup campaigns with Ipswich, and moved to Leicester on
a one-year deal at the end of an injury-hit 2003/04 season.
He has made 23 appearances for Leicester this season.
Makin has made 386 career starts and nine substitute appearances, scoring
eight goals.