tribal

[ trahy-buhl ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of a tribe:

   tribal customs in Indonesia.

2. designating, characterized by, or relating to a strong sense of loyalty to one’s own tribe, party, or group:

   Tribal politics can be divisive and counterproductive.

ˈtribal

/ ˈtraɪbəl /

adjective

1. of or denoting a tribe or tribes

   tribal chiefs in northern Yemen

2. displaying loyalty to a tribe, group, or tribal values

   the tribal loyalties of Labour MPs

Derived Forms

• ˈtribally, adverb

Other Words From

• tribal·ly adverb
• non·tribal adjective
• quasi-tribal adjective
• sub·tribal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tribal¹

First recorded in 1625–35; tribe + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Medart maintains that areas outside the monument won’t be impacted, and said tribal leaders want to work collaboratively with stakeholders to hammer out a vision for the area.

From Los Angeles Times

That jaunty jazz is sandwiched between two sections that fuse tribal rhythms with ambient synth sounds, making it quickly clear that gamers were in for a wide-ranging musical adventure.

From New York Times

When federal legislators eased tribal land restrictions in 1959, allowing for 99-year leases, the city and tribal land owners had an opportunity to address health concerns in the area — and cash in on the land.

From Los Angeles Times

It is part of director Hwang’s plan to expose the dangers of living in an increasingly tribal world.

From BBC

Neither Trump nor the Republican party has declared any official policies for Indigenous people, but tribal leaders worry the new administration could slow land return efforts, slash essential services and undermine their sovereignty.

From Los Angeles Times