Tributary

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈtɹɪbjʊtəɹi/

Definitions

1. A smaller stream or river that feeds into a larger waterway, enhancing its flow and volume; a branch-like watercourse that supplies water to a principal river, creating a network of waterways; or a lesser body of water that combines its flow with a more significant river or lake, contributing to the overall basin drainage system
2. A subsidiary river that merges with a larger river, playing a role in directing water to a main channel; a flowing watercourse that joins another river, increasing its water content; or a secondary water flow that connects with a major river or lake, enriching the hydrological landscape
3. A minor river or stream that joins a bigger river, adding to its water volume

Etymology: The Latin "tributum" meant a payment, literally something "assigned" or "contributed," and it was tied to the Roman state's taxes and levies. A "tributarius" was therefore someone who paid such a levy, and English borrowed the adjective in the sense of "paying tribute," as when a subject people or a vassal state owed money or goods to a superior power. The notion of paying dues to a stronger party is the root from which the river sense grew. The river meaning is a later extension of that idea. A stream that flows into a larger river can be pictured as handing over its water, the way a subordinate state hands over its tribute to an overlord. The river sense is the one most readers meet today, and it has nothing to do with money.

Synonyms: stream, branch, feeder, inflow, confluence

Antonyms: main river, outflow, discharge, effluent, drain