contributory
/kənˈtrɪbjʊt(ə)ri
/adjective
1Playing a part in bringing something about: smoking may be a contributory cause of the disease...
- Indeed, in many respects, it was a significant contributory factor in bringing it to an end.
- His looks are important, a contributory factor to the success that has made him one of Britain's best known television actors and a regular on the chat-show circuit.
- When we talk about speed being a significant contributory factor in accident casualty rates that is exactly what we mean.
2(Of a pension or insurance scheme) operated by means of a fund into which people pay: contributory benefits...
- Although less common than 20 years ago many large companies operate a contributory pension fund on behalf of their employees.
- We offer an excellent benefits package including contributory pension scheme, life assurance and private medical cover.
- In return, the Company offers a competitive salary, a contributory Pension Scheme, life insurance and a company car.
noun (plural contributories) Law, British
A person liable to give money towards the payment of a wound-up company’s debts.In reaching that decision, the court may have to weigh the different interests of creditors and contributories and, perhaps, the different interests of preferential and non-preferential creditors....
- The court may, as to all matters relating to the winding up of a company, have regard to the wishes of the creditors or contributories of the company, as proved to it by any sufficient evidence.
- The general body of contributories can have no interest in the case, except such interest as they have through the company.
Origin
Late Middle English (in the sense 'contributing to a fund'): from medieval Latin contributorius, from Latin contribut- 'added' (see contribution).