tribute

noun trib·ute \ˈtri-(ˌ)byüt, -byət\

: something that you say, give, or do to show respect or affection for someone

: something that proves the good quality or effectiveness of something

: money or goods that a ruler or country gives to another ruler or country especially for protection

Full Definition of TRIBUTE

a : a payment by one ruler or nation to another in acknowledgment of submission or as the price of protection; also : the tax levied for such a payment

b (1) : an excessive tax, rental, or tariff imposed by a government, sovereign, lord, or landlord (2) : an exorbitant charge levied by a person or group having the power of coercion

c : the liability to pay tribute

a : something given or contributed voluntarily as due or deserved; especially : a gift or service showing respect, gratitude, or affection <a floral tribute>

b : something (as material evidence or a formal attestation) that indicates the worth, virtue, or effectiveness of the one in question <the design is a tribute to his ingenuity>

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Origin of TRIBUTE

Middle English tribut, from Latin tributum, from neuter of tributus, past participle of tribuere to allot, bestow, grant, pay, from tribus tribe

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to TRIBUTE

Synonyms: accolade, citation, commendation, dithyramb, eulogium, eulogy, homage, hymn, paean, panegyric, salutation, encomium

Synonym Discussion of TRIBUTE

encomium, eulogy, panegyric, tribute, citation mean a formal expression of praise. encomium implies enthusiasm and warmth in praising a person or a thing <received encomiums from literary critics>. eulogy applies to a prepared speech or writing extolling the virtues and services of a person <delivered the eulogy at the funeral service>. panegyric suggests an elaborate often poetic compliment <her lyrical memoir was a panegyric to her mentor>. tribute implies deeply felt praise conveyed either through words or through a significant act <the concert was a musical tribute to the early jazz masters>. citation applies to the formal praise of a person offered in a military dispatch or in awarding an honorary degree <earned a citation for bravery>.