tributary
UK: ˈtrɪbjʊt(ə)ri | US: ˈtrɪbjəˌteri
n. 1. A river or stream flowing into a larger river or lake.
n. 2. A person or state that pays tribute to another, often as a sign of submission.
adj. 1. Relating to or constituting a tributary.
The word "tributary" originates from Latin tributarius, derived from tributum (meaning "payment" or "contribution"). The root tribut reflects the historical practice of weaker states or individuals paying tribute to more powerful entities. Over time, the term was metaphorically extended to describe rivers that "contribute" their waters to larger bodies, reflecting a similar subordinate relationship.
The Missouri River is a major tributary of the Mississippi.
Ancient kingdoms often demanded goods from their tributaries.
The small stream became a tributary of the main river downstream.
The conquered nation was forced to become a tributary state.
Tributary systems were common in medieval empires.