Tribe - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

social group

A tribe is a social group that consists of a number of families, clans, or other groups who share a common ancestry, language, culture, and territory.

Synonyms

clan, community, ethnic group.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tribe	Often used to refer to a group of people, typically indigenous, who share a common culture, language, and history. It can sometimes have a negative or exoticizing connotation. The tribe lived in the forest and had unique customs. Anthropologists studied the tribe's traditions and social structures.
clan	Used to describe a group of people connected by kinship, often used in a historical or familial context, particularly in reference to Scottish or Irish culture. He belongs to the famous MacGregor clan. The clans gathered for the annual family reunion.
community	Refers to any group of people living in the same area or sharing a common interest or goal. This term is neutral and versatile, used in many contexts. The local community organized a clean-up event. She found a sense of belonging in her new community.
ethnic group	Describes people who identify with each other based on common ancestral, social, cultural, or national experiences. It is a neutral term often used in sociological, anthropological, and demographic contexts. The country is home to many different ethnic groups. The survey aimed to understand the cultural practices of various ethnic groups.

Examples of usage

The indigenous tribe has lived in the mountains for centuries.
The tribe gathers around the fire to share stories and traditions.
The tribe's chief is responsible for making important decisions.
The tribe practices traditional rituals to honor their ancestors.
The tribe has a strong sense of community and solidarity.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Tribal societies are often characterized by strong communal bonds, with members sharing roles and responsibilities.
Many indigenous cultures around the world identify themselves primarily by their tribal affiliation, preserving unique languages and traditions.

Anthropology

In anthropology, tribes are classified as social groups that are larger than bands but smaller than nations, often living in harmony with nature.
The study of tribal dynamics helps researchers understand social structures, kinship, and cultural practices in different societies.

Pop Culture

Tribes often appear in media, such as movies and books, symbolizing unity and teamwork in the face of adversity.
Reality shows sometimes showcase tribes as they compete in challenges, reflecting real-life social interactions and alliances.

Modern Usage

In the digital age, the term 'tribe' has expanded to describe communities formed around shared interests, like online gaming or hobbies.
Social media has enabled people to find and connect with their 'tribes' worldwide, emphasizing collective identity and belonging.

Origin of 'tribe'

Main points about word origin

The word 'tribe' comes from the Latin word 'tribus', which originally referred to the three main divisions of the early Roman state.
In ancient times, tribes were often formed based on kinship, allowing people to live together and protect one another.

The word 'tribe' originated from the Latin word 'tribus', which referred to a division of the Roman people. Over time, the term evolved to describe social groups with common characteristics such as ancestry, language, and culture. Tribes have been an integral part of human societies throughout history, playing a significant role in shaping social structures and identities.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,201, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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Tribe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations