Etymology: Middle English tribut, from Latin tributum, from neuter of tributus, past participle of tribuere to allot, bestow, grant, pay, from tribus tribe. 1. 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 2. a. something given or contributed voluntarily as due or deserved; especially a gift or service showing respect, gratitude, or affection.