The word "tribunate" is spelled /ˈtrɪbjʊnət/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It is a noun that refers to an office or position of a tribune, which is a key political and military official in ancient Rome. The word can be broken down phonetically as "TRIH-b-yoo-nit," with emphasis on the first syllable. The "-ate" suffix indicates a state or condition of being, and the "-une" root comes from the Latin word "tribunus," which means "chief of a tribe."
Tribunate is a term that refers to the office or position of a tribune. In ancient Rome, a tribune was an official appointed to represent the interests of the plebeians, or the common people, in the government and protect them from any potential abuse of power by the patricians, who were members of the elite ruling class. The tribunate was one of the key institutions of the Roman Republic.
The tribunate had significant powers and responsibilities. A tribune had the authority to veto any decision made by other magistrates, including consuls and senators. They also possessed the power to initiate legislation and propose reforms that aimed to benefit the plebeians and ensure their well-being. Tribunes could convene assemblies, address the people, and call for votes on important matters.
The tribunate was initially composed of only two officials but was eventually increased to ten during the late republic. The tribunes were elected annually by the plebeians, and they held their positions for a year. The office of tribune was considered sacrosanct, meaning that any interference or harm to a tribune was considered a grave offense. They were protected by special privileges, such as inviolability and immunity from prosecution.
In summary, the term tribunate refers to the office and powers granted to a tribune, an official in ancient Rome appointed to represent and protect the rights of the common people. The tribunate played a crucial role in the government of the Roman Republic, ensuring the plebeians had a voice and protection against potential abuses.
The office of a tribune.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tribunate" comes from the Latin word "tribunatus", which is derived from "tribunus". "Tribunus" itself is a combination of "tribus" (tribe) and the suffix "-unus" (one). In ancient Rome, a "tribunus" referred to a representative of the plebeians (common people) who had the power to speak on their behalf and the authority to veto decisions made by magistrates. The term "tribunatus" was used to describe the office or position of the tribune, and over time, it came to be known as "tribunate" in English.