contributory

[kuhn-trib-yuh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee]

adjective

1. pertaining to or of the nature of contribution; contributing.

2. furnishing something toward a result.

   a contributory factor.

   Synonyms: ancillary, accessory

3. of, relating to, or constituting an insurance or pension plan the premiums of which are paid partly by an employer and partly by employees.

4. subject to contribution or levy.

noun

plural

contributories 

1. a person or thing that contributes.

contributory

/ kənˈtrɪbjʊtərɪ, -trɪ /

adjective

1. (often foll by to) sharing in or being partly responsible (for the cause of something)

   a contributory factor

2. giving or donating to a common purpose or fund

3. of, relating to, or designating an insurance or pension scheme in which the premiums are paid partly by the employer and partly by the employees who benefit from it

4. liable or subject to a tax or levy

noun

1. a person or thing that contributes

2. company law a member or former member of a company liable to contribute to the assets on the winding-up of the company

Other Word Forms

• noncontributory adjective
• uncontributory adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of contributory¹

1375–1425; late Middle English contributorie < Medieval Latin contribūtōrius. See contribute, -tory ¹

Example Sentences

Incorrectly categorising risk was a contributory factor to the way French police treated Liverpool fans before the 2023 Champions League final in Paris.

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In Monday’s case, Sony sued Cox for “contributory” copyright infringement because the cable provider didn’t shut off internet access to alleged pirates who used its service.

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An inquest into her death found the Army's handling of the complaint played "more than a minimal contributory part in her death".

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Whatever the contributory factors, Labour are gloomy here, even on their upbeat days.

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An inquest into Gunner Beck's death earlier this year determined the Army's handling of the complaint played "more than a minimal contributory part in her death".

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