
Tributary
Geographical Hierarchy
Understand that 'tributary' implies a hierarchy in streaming bodies of water, where it is subordinate to a larger one.

The stream forms a tributary, joining the more significant river downstream.
Direction of Flow
Tributaries flow towards the main river, never away from it, indicating a convergence.

You’ll find fish spawning where the clear tributary flows into the murky river.
Size Matters
The term 'tributary' often means a smaller stream, not necessarily a tiny one, just less significant compared to its receiving body.

Guided kayaking is available on this tributary before it merges into the roaring river.
Compare with
AffluentBranchConfluenceCreekFeederInletRivuletStream
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