tribal
UK: ˈtraɪbəl | US: ˈtraɪbəl
adj. relating to a tribe or tribes
adj. characteristic of a tribe; communal or traditional in nature
tribal = trib<tribe> + al<adjective suffix>
- trib<tribe>: From Latin tribus, referring to a social division of the Roman people, later generalized to mean any distinct group.
- al<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, derived from Latin -alis, indicating relation or pertaining to.
Etymology Origin:
The word tribal originates from the Latin tribus, which initially denoted one of the three political divisions of early Rome. Over time, tribus expanded to describe any social or ethnic group, and the suffix -al was added to form the adjective tribal, meaning "pertaining to a tribe." The term reflects the human tendency to categorize social structures and has retained its core meaning of group identity and tradition.
The tribal council gathered to discuss land rights.
She wore a necklace with intricate tribal patterns.
Tribal customs often emphasize collective decision-making.
The museum exhibit showcased tribal artifacts from across Africa.
His research focuses on tribal languages in the Amazon.