noun
Common
tribute
TRIHB-yoot
Tribute (noun) means something said, done, or given to show respect or admiration for someone. Example: “The band played a tribute to their old teacher at the concert.”
noun
1
Something said, done, or given to show respect or admiration for someone.
"The band played a tribute to their old teacher at the concert."
"Flowers were left at the gate as a tribute to the kind neighbour."
"Friends and family gathered to pay tribute to her life's work."
2
Historically, payment made by one state or ruler to another, often to avoid conflict.
"The Ancient Romans made their conquered countries pay tribute."
"In ancient times, smaller kingdoms sent tribute to a powerful neighbour to keep the peace."
"The village paid tribute in grain and cattle each autumn."
"The conquered kingdom was forced to pay tribute to the empire each year."
How to use tribute
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA gesture of respect or honor for someone, or historically, a payment made to a more powerful ruler.
Common pairings
pay tribute
tribute concert
floral tribute
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- tributes
- Past tense
- tributed
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The band played a _____ to their old teacher at the concert.
Etymology
From Latin tributum, "a thing paid or contributed," from tribuere, "to assign or grant," itself related to tribus, "tribe."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for tribute
See all rhymes for tribute →Frequently asked questions
What does “tribute” mean?
The word “tribute” means something said, done, or given to show respect or admiration for someone. In plain terms, a gesture of respect or honor for someone, or historically, a payment made to a more powerful ruler.
How do you pronounce “tribute”?
“Tribute” is pronounced TRIHB-yoot (/ˈtɹɪbjuːt/ in IPA).
How do you use “tribute” in a sentence?
Here is “tribute” used in a sentence: “Friends and family gathered to pay tribute to her life's work.”
What part of speech is “tribute”?
“Tribute” is a noun.
Where does the word “tribute” come from?
The word “tribute” comes from Latin. From Latin tributum, "a thing paid or contributed," from tribuere, "to assign or grant," itself related to tribus, "tribe.".
Is “tribute” a common word?
“Tribute” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “tribute” have?
“Tribute” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something said, done, or given to show respect or admiration for someone.
What is the difference between a tribute and a compliment?
A tribute is a public act, gift, or statement made to honour someone, and is usually substantial or formal. A compliment is a brief, everyday expression of praise, often given directly in conversation.
What is the difference between the two meanings of tribute?
The modern sense is something said, done, or given to show respect or admiration. The historical sense is a payment made by one state or ruler to another, often to avoid conflict.
What are common phrases that use tribute?
Everyday collocations include tribute band, floral tribute, and to pay tribute to someone. These reflect the modern meaning of honouring a person or their work.
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