Tribe Meaning and Definition
Tribe
Pronunciation
/traɪb/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A group of people, often sharing common characteristics, traditions, or ancestry, who inhabit a specific geographic area or have a shared sense of identity.
Examples
- The indigenous tribe of the Amazon rainforest has a unique culture and language.
- The tribe of nomads roamed the desert in search of food and shelter.
Synonyms
- Circle
- Group
Antonyms
- Individual
- Isolated
Etymology
The word “Tribe” comes from the Old French word “tribu,” which is derived from the Latin word “tribus,” meaning “three” and referring to the three branches of the Roman people. Over time, the meaning expanded to encompass any larger community or collective.
Additional Information
Tribes have played a crucial role in human history, often serving as the basis for social organization and identity. Many modern-day tribes continue to maintain their traditional practices and ways of life, despite the influence of modern society.
Tribal communities can be found on every continent and often possess rich cultural heritages, unique customs, and distinct languages.
Today, the term “tribe” is used in various contexts, including anthropology, sociology, and politics, to describe any group of people with a shared sense of identity or belonging.
The study of tribes has also shed light on the complexities of human relationships, power dynamics, and social cohesion.
Tribes often possess a strong sense of solidarity and mutual support, which has enabled them to survive and thrive in challenging environments.
The decline of traditional tribal ways of life has led to concerns about cultural preservation and the rights of indigenous peoples.
Usage Notes
The word “Tribe” is used as a noun to refer to a group of people, emphasizing their shared identity or common ancestry. It is essential to use the term sensitively and respectfully, especially when referring to indigenous tribes or other minority groups.
When using the word “Tribe” in a sentence, consider the context and the intended meaning to avoid misconceptions or offense.
The term is often used in a more general sense to describe any group with a shared sense of belonging or identity.
Cultural References
- The African diaspora, a global community of people of African descent, often refers to themselves as a tribe.
- The Haida Nation, an indigenous tribe from the Pacific Northwest, has a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Tribe has been used in various popular culture references, including music, films, and literature, to describe any group with a shared identity or purpose.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Tribe mentality
- Tribe culture
- Joining a tribe
Related Words or Phrases
- Culture
- Society
- Community
Collocations
- Tribal community
- Tribal culture
- Tribal identity
Frequency of Use
The word “Tribe” is used frequently in academic, anthropological, and sociological contexts, as well as in popular culture and media.
It is also commonly used in everyday conversation to describe any group with a shared identity or sense of belonging.
Common Misspellings
- Tribe -> Trib
- Tribe -> Trible