tribune

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   in ancient Rome, an elected official charged with protecting the interests and rights of the plebeians

   A tribune could veto measures that threatened the Roman plebs.

2. 2
   noun

   in ancient Rome, a military officer ranking below a legate and above a centurion

   The military tribune relayed the commander's orders to the legion.

3. 3
   noun

   an elevated platform, gallery, or dais for speakers, officials, or spectators

   The presiding officer addressed the assembly from the tribune.

From Middle English tribune, Old French tribun, and Latin tribunus ('tribal head, tribune'), from tribus ('tribe'). The architectural sense came through French and Italian for a raised stand or gallery.

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