con·trib·ute \\kən-ˈtri-byət, -(ˌ)byüt also & especially before -ed or -ing -ˈtri-bət; chiefly Brit also ˈkän-trə-ˌbyüt\\ verb (-ut·ed ; -ut·ing)
ETYMOLOGY Latin contributus, past participle of contribuere, from com- + tribuere to grant — more at tribute
DATE 1530
transitive verb 1. to give or supply in common with others contribute money to a cause 2. to supply (as an article) for a publication intransitive verb 1. a. to give a part to a common fund or store contribute to a fund-raising campaign b. to play a significant part in bringing about an end or result many players have contributed to the team's success 2. to submit articles to a publication • con·trib·u·tor \\-byə-tər, -bə-, -ˌbyü-\\ noun