federal
UK: ˈfedərəl | US: ˈfedərəl
adj. relating to a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent units (e.g., states or provinces)
adj. pertaining to a formal agreement or covenant
n. (Federal) a supporter of centralized government (historical, e.g., U.S. Civil War context)
The word "federal" traces back to the Latin foedus, meaning "treaty" or "compact." It originally described alliances between states or groups (e.g., foederati, allied tribes in Rome). Over time, it evolved to denote systems of shared governance, emphasizing cooperation under a central authority while preserving regional autonomy. The term gained prominence in U.S. history, contrasting "Federalists" (advocates of a strong union) with anti-federalists.
The federal government oversees national defense and foreign policy.
Switzerland operates under a federal system with cantonal autonomy.
Federal laws supersede state regulations in certain matters.
The Federal Reserve regulates the U.S. monetary system.
Early American debates centered on federal versus states' rights.