Tributary
Context
A river or stream flowing into a larger river or lake
Explanation
A tributary is a freshwater stream or river that feeds into a larger stream, river, or lake. It contributes to the flow of the main body and plays a significant role in the area's hydrology and ecology.
Applications
The tributary joins the river, adding to its volume of water.
Tributaries are important for maintaining the biodiversity of the river ecosystem.
The health of a river can often be assessed by studying its tributaries.