tribesman
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈaɪbsmən/
US
- /ˈtraɪbzmæn/
Description
- Male member of a traditional group
- Member of a tribal community
- Man from an Indigenous community
A tribesman is a man who belongs to a tribe, usually a traditional social group connected by family ties, shared history, and customs. The word is most often used in historical, cultural, or anthropological writing. You might read about tribesmen protecting their land, following long-standing customs, or taking part in the daily life of their community.
The term should be used with care, especially when talking about Indigenous peoples. In many cases, a more specific name for the people or community is better.
The word "tribesman" refers to a male member of a tribe, meaning a traditional social group often linked by ancestry, culture, language, and shared customs. It usually appears in historical writing, stories, and discussions of Indigenous or tribal societies. In that setting, it points to a man as part of a larger community with its own way of life, leadership, and traditions.
You may see the word in accounts of war, travel, or daily life: tribesmen guarding a village, hunting together, moving with their herds, or taking part in ceremonies. The meaning is straightforward, but the tone can vary. In older writing, the word is often neutral. In modern writing, though, it can sound distant or outdated if it is used carelessly.
Because of that, it is often better to use the specific name of the people being described, or a broader phrase such as "Indigenous man" or "community member" when that fits the context better. This is especially important when the exact group is known. Careful wording helps avoid stereotypes and makes the description more accurate.
So, "tribesman" mainly means a man from a tribe or tribal community. It is a real and useful word, but one that works best when the context is clear and respectful.
Examples
- 1
Camp scene
The wounded tribesman was carried back to the camp before sunset.
Meaning
a tribesman
a man who belongs to a tribe
- 2
Fictional story
In the novel, a young tribesman leaves his people and returns years later as a leader.
- 3
Community customs
The guide explained how the tribesmen traded, hunted, and settled arguments within the community.
Grammar
tribesmen
the plural form of tribesman
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- tribesmannoun
Forms
- tribesmenpluralnoun