plural contributions
1
: something that is contributed: such as
a
: something that is given to help a person, a cause, etc.
She made a 100-dollar contribution [=donation] to breast cancer research.
They thanked him for his contribution of time and money.
He made an important contribution to the debate.
b
: something that is done to cause something to happen
She's honored for her contributions [=efforts, work] towards finding a cure for AIDS.
As mayor, he made many positive contributions to the growth of the city.
c
: a piece of writing that is published as part of a larger work (such as a magazine, newspaper, or book)
a book of essays including contributions from several well-known political columnists
2
: a regular payment that is made to an employer or government for something (such as health insurance or a pension)
3
: the act of giving something : the act of contributing
The money was raised by voluntary contribution.
Cite this Entry
“Contribution.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/contribution. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.
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