1. the offices or terms of office held by tribunes in ancient Rome
Usage: historical; plural form

Examples

• The tribunates of the Gracchi brothers marked a turning point in Roman politics.
• Multiple tribunates were held simultaneously by different officials.
• His successive tribunates gave him considerable political influence.
• The tribunates provided a voice for the common people in Roman government.
• Ancient historians documented the various tribunates and their achievements.
• The power of the tribunates often conflicted with senatorial authority.