Tribe

/traɪb/ noun

Definition

A group of people who share the same ancestors, culture, language, and traditions, often living together in a specific area.

Etymology

From Latin 'tribus,' originally referring to the three divisions of early Roman people. The word evolved to mean any social group united by blood, culture, or common purpose, and is now used anthropologically to describe indigenous communities and culturally distinct groups.

Kelly Says

The word 'tribe' reveals something profound about human nature—we naturally organize into groups of a few hundred people where everyone knows each other, a pattern anthropologists call our 'tribal instinct.' This is why online communities, sports teams, and fandoms often feel so psychologically powerful.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.