traɪb n. 1 a
group of (esp. primitive) families or communities, linked by
social,
economic,
religious, or
blood ties,
and usu. having a
common culture and
dialect, and a recognized
leader. 2
any similar natural or
political division. 3 Rom.Hist.
each of
the political divisions of the
Roman people. 4 each of the 12 divisions of the Israelites. 5 usu. derog. a set or
number of persons
esp. of
one profession etc. or
family (the
whole tribe of actors). 6 Biol. a group of organisms usu.
ranking between genus and the
subfamily. 7 (in pl.)
large numbers. [ME, orig. in pl.
form tribuz, tribus f. OF or L tribus (sing. & pl.)]