tributary

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noun trib·u·tary \ˈtri-byə-ˌter-ē\

Definition of tributary

plural

tributaries

1 : a stream feeding a larger stream or a lake
2 : a ruler or state that pays tribute to a conqueror

See tributary defined for English-language learners

Did You Know?

A tributary was originally a person or state that owed tribute to a more powerful person or state. Ancient China, for instance, had dozens of tributary states, and the emperor would receive elephants from Siam or young girls from Korea as tribute. Just as a smaller power gave some of its wealth to a larger power, a small river contributes its waters to a larger one. A tributary can be a tiny stream, but some are immense rivers. The Missouri River, for example, could be called a tributary to the Mississippi, even though it's about 2,500 miles long and receives hundreds of tributaries itself.

First Known Use of tributary

14th century

tributary

adjective trib·u·tary

Definition of tributary

1 : paying tribute to another to acknowledge submission, to obtain protection, or to purchase peace : subject
2 : paid or owed as tribute tributary gifts
3 : channeling material or supplies into something more inclusive : contributory