tribute

[ trib-yoot ]

noun

1. a gift, testimonial, compliment, or the like, given as due or in acknowledgment of gratitude or esteem.

   Synonyms: eulogy, commendation, recognition

2. a stated sum or other valuable consideration paid by one sovereign or state to another in acknowledgment of subjugation or as the price of peace, security, protection, or the like.
3. a rent, tax, or the like, as that paid by a subject to a sovereign.
4. any exacted or enforced payment or contribution.

   Synonyms: duty, impost, toll, levy

5. obligation or liability to make such payment.

tribute

/ ˈtrɪbjuːt /

noun

1. a gift or statement made in acknowledgment, gratitude, or admiration
2. 1. a payment by one ruler or state to another, usually as an acknowledgment of submission
   2. any tax levied for such a payment
3. (in feudal society) homage or a payment rendered by a vassal to his lord
4. the obligation to pay tribute

Word History and Origins

Origin of tribute¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English tribut, from Latin tribūtum “levied payment,” noun use of neuter past participle of tribuere “to assign, allot,” verb derivative of tribus tribe

Word History and Origins

Origin of tribute¹

C14: from Latin tribūtum , from tribuere to grant (originally: to distribute among the tribes), from tribus tribe

Example Sentences

Despite the pending lawsuits from the Hutchins family, the film has made its premiere while including a tribute to honor Hutchins' work and life, Variety reported.

From Salon

Organisers of Poland’s Camerimage International Film Festival said the screening was a tribute to the 42-year-old Ukrainian-born cinematographer, who was a fan of the event and had attended in the past.

From BBC

Styles, Tomlinson, Horan and Malik each publicly paid tribute to their “brother” in social media posts in the days immediately following his death.

From Los Angeles Times

In an emotional tribute, the UUP politician said Mr Reid had faced his illness “with his usual good humour”.

From BBC

Nadal was invited on court to address the crowd, while an emotional tribute video featuring messages from many of his rivals was also played.

From BBC

Related Words

• accolade
• appreciation
• compliment
• eulogy
• gift
• gratitude
• honor
• memorial
• recognition
• respect