Tribal Meaning
Tribal Definition & Usage
Relating to or characteristic of a tribe, especially one of indigenous or ancient origin.
Examples
- "The tribal markings on his face symbolized his connection to his ancestors."
- "They wore tribal garments made from animal skins during the ceremonial dance."
- "The research focused on tribal traditions that have been passed down for centuries."
- "She joined a tribal community deep in the forest to learn about their customs."
- "Many tribal societies rely on oral traditions to preserve their history."
Pertaining to or characterized by a strong sense of community, loyalty, or solidarity, sometimes in a more figurative sense.
Examples
- "The team's success was built on a tribal sense of loyalty and togetherness."
- "In modern workplaces, some cultures still hold tribal dynamics where groups form around common interests."
- "His tribal mentality meant that he always put his family and friends first, no matter the cost."
- "The political group was united by a tribal loyalty to their leader."
- "Her tribal nature made it difficult for her to trust outsiders."
Cultural Context
The word 'tribal' originates from the Latin word 'tribus', referring to a group of people with a shared heritage, customs, and usually a common ancestor. In many parts of the world, tribal communities have historically maintained distinct ways of life, often centered around familial or kinship bonds. The term is frequently associated with indigenous groups, particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, but can also refer to ancient or small-scale societies.
The Tribal Bond
Story
The Tribal Bond
In the heart of the dense forest, the elders of the small tribal community gathered around the flickering flames of a bonfire. Their faces were painted with intricate tribal markings, each representing a story passed down from their ancestors. As the flames crackled and the night grew deeper, the younger members of the tribe sat attentively, eager to hear the tales that had been told for generations. Mia, a young woman from the outside world, had recently joined their community. Her heart raced as she looked at the tribal circle, feeling both out of place and deeply connected at the same time. The chief, an elderly man with a long white beard and a calm presence, began the evening’s ritual. “The strength of our tribe is built on unity,” he said, his voice steady. “No matter what happens in the outside world, our loyalty to one another is what keeps us strong.” Mia had spent years in the city, where relationships often felt temporary, but here, among the tribe, everything felt different. The people were bound together by something far stronger than mere geography or circumstance—it was a deep, almost primal sense of loyalty and belonging. She understood, for the first time, what it meant to be part of something larger than herself. As the night wore on, Mia participated in a traditional dance, her movements awkward at first, but soon she found herself lost in the rhythm of the group. The tribal bonds were not just metaphorical here—they were tangible, passed through generations and felt by all who were part of the community. Later, when the fire had died down and the group began to disperse, Mia walked away with a renewed sense of purpose. She realized that her journey had only just begun. While she had always thought of herself as an individual, she now saw the value of being part of something greater. The tribe had shown her a new way of living, grounded in tradition, loyalty, and the strength of community.
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