contributory

/kənˈtrɪbjətɔri/
adjective
  1. Playing a part in causing something, especially something negative.
    • The report identified several contributory elements to the economic downturn.
    • Poor diet is often a contributory cause of heart disease.
    • Speeding was a contributory factor in the accident.
  2. Relating to a system in which people or organizations make regular payments to receive benefits, such as a pension or insurance.
    • Many countries have a contributory social security system funded by workers and employers.
    • In a contributory insurance scheme, members pay premiums to cover potential losses.
    • The company offers a contributory pension plan where employees and the employer both pay in.
What does "contributory" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean