tributary meaning and definition

TRIBUTARY noun

Definition of tributary (noun)

1. a branch that flows into the main stream
   • synonyms: affluent, confluent, feeder
   • antonym: distributary

TRIBUTARY adjective

Definition of tributary (adjective)

1. (of a stream) flowing into a larger stream
2. paying tribute
   • "a tributary colony"
3. tending to bring about; being partly responsible for
   • "working conditions are not conducive to productivity"; "the seaport was a contributing factor in the growth of the city"; "a contributory factor"
   • synonyms: conducive, contributing, contributive, contributory