Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(division). In a Roman sense, the third part of the empire, but with Hebrews any division of the people, especially that division which sprung from the twelve sons of Jacob, and was perpetuated in their descendants (Gen. 48:5; Num. 26:5-51; Josh. 13:7-33; 15-19). Of these tribes two, Ephraim and Manasseh, sprang from Joseph. Still there were only twelve partitions of conquered Canaan, for the tribe of Levi received no allotment of lands, but was diffused in cities among the other tribes and supported by them. Each tribe was headed by a prince, and each possessed considerable independence even under the monarchy. They waged war separately and among themselves (Judg. 1:2-4; 1 Chron. 5:18-22; 2 Sam. 2:4-9); and finally ten of the tribes revolted and set up the separate kingdom of Israel (19:41-43; 1 Kings 12). For history of each tribe see its title.
Strong’s Dictionary of Hebrew Words:
Meaning:
(Aramaic) corresponding to 7626; a clan