Tributary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tributary
[ˈtrɪb.juː.ter.i ]
Definition
river system
A tributary is a river or stream that flows into a larger river or lake. It adds water to the larger body of water and is essential for watershed management. Tributaries can vary significantly in size, from large rivers that are major contributors to small streams.
Synonyms
affluent, branch, inflow, stream.
Examples of usage
- The Amazon River has many tributaries that contribute to its flow.
- The tributary's waters were vital for the surrounding ecosystem.
- Hiking along the tributary, we spotted various birds and wildlife.
- Several tributaries converge at this point, creating a wider river.
- Farmers rely on the tributary for irrigation of their crops.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Geography
- Tributaries can significantly impact the ecosystem by providing habitats and nutrient-rich water to larger rivers.
- A river system often consists of many tributaries, which can create complex networks that are vital for drainage and flood control.
Environmental Science
- Tributaries help maintain the health of the primary river ecosystem by carrying sediments and nutrients essential for aquatic life.
- Human activity like urbanization can alter tributary flow, impacting the local ecology and leading to issues like pollution and habitat loss.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures have mythologies or stories connected to rivers and their tributaries, often symbolizing life, fertility, and connection to nature.
- In art, the idea of tributaries is often used as a metaphor for connections between people and ideas, illustrating how various influences come together.
Literature
- Tributaries frequently appear in literary works to symbolize themes of journey and growth, as they represent paths that merge into a greater whole.
- Notable authors like Mark Twain often used the imagery of rivers and tributaries to explore human experiences and relationships.
Origin of 'tributary'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'tributarius', meaning 'contributing' or 'paying tribute', originally referring to payments made to a ruler.
- The term has been used in English since the 15th century, relating to various forms of 'contribution' in different contexts.
The term 'tributary' originates from the Latin word 'tributarius', which means 'contributing' or 'that which pays tribute'. This Latin word combines 'tribuere', meaning 'to give or to bestow', with the suffix '-arius', indicating a relationship or pertaining to a certain function. The use of 'tributary' in English dates back to the 15th century, relating to the idea of one water body contributing to another. Historically, tributaries played a crucial role in human development, as they have provided essential water sources for agriculture, transportation, and settlements. The understanding and management of river systems with their tributaries have been fundamental in shaping civilizations.