TRIBUTARIES Meaning and
Definition
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Tributaries are streams or rivers that flow into a larger body of water, usually a main river or a lake. These smaller watercourses contribute their waters to the larger waterbody through confluence points. The term "tributary" is commonly used in geographical contexts to refer to the smaller rivers that merge with larger ones.
Tributaries play a crucial role in hydrology and the overall functioning of a river system. They increase the volume and flow of water within the main river, helping to shape and form the overall characteristics of the waterbody. Additionally, tributaries also transport sediment and nutrients, which are essential for the health and fertility of the river ecosystem.
Tributaries can vary in size and form, ranging from tiny creeks to significant rivers. They can originate from various sources such as springs, lakes, or other rivers. Some tributaries have a consistent flow throughout the year, while others may only have water during certain seasons or after rainfall.
The concept of tributaries extends beyond the realm of rivers and can apply to other systems. For instance, in political or economic contexts, a tributary can refer to a region, state, or entity that pays homage or provides resources to a more powerful or dominant one.
Overall, tributaries are an integral part of a river system, both in terms of the water flow and the ecological dynamics. Their contributions significantly impact the quality and functionality of the larger body of water they merge with.
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Etymology of TRIBUTARIES
The word "tributaries" originates from the Latin word "tributum", which means "tribute" or "tax". "Tributum" is a past participle of the Latin verb "tribuere", meaning "to assign" or "to allot". In ancient Rome, tributum referred to the tax paid by conquered provinces to the empire. Over time, the term "tributary" expanded its meaning to describe any smaller river or stream that flows into a larger main river, perhaps drawing a parallel to the smaller entities paying tribute to a larger authority.
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