tribute: Meaning and Definition of

trib•ute

1. a gift, testimonial, compliment, or the like, given as due or in acknowledgment of gratitude or esteem.
2. a stated sum or other valuable consideration paid by one sovereign or state to another in acknowledgment of subjugation or as the price of peace, security, protection, or the like.
3. a rent, tax, or the like, as that paid by a subject to a sovereign.
4. any exacted or enforced payment or contribution.
5. obligation or liability to make such payment.