Tributary
/ˈtrɪbjəteri/noun
A small river or stream that flows into a larger one.
The Missouri River is a tributary of the Mississippi River.
Often appears as...
- major tributary
- minor tributary
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Geographical 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.
Pro Tip 2/3Direction 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.
Pro Tip 3/3Size 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
affluentbranchconfluentcreekfeederinletrivuletstream
Never forget "Tributary"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension