What is a tribute. What did it mean when a conquered group paid tribute?

A tribute is a payment made by one party to another, often as a sign of respect, allegiance, or submission. When a conquered group paid tribute to a ruling power, it typically indicated their subjugation and recognition of the conqueror's authority. This payment could be in the form of goods, services, or money, and it often served to ensure the protection of the conquered group while also reinforcing the power dynamics between the two parties.