1 of a system of government in which several States form a unity but remain independent in internal affairs.
2 relating to or affecting such a federation (federal laws).
3 relating to or favouring centralized government.
4 (Federal) US of the Northern States in the Civil War.
5 comprising an association of largely independent units.
Phrases and idioms:
federal reserve (in the US) a national system of reserve cash available to banks.
Derivatives:
federalism n. federalist n. federalize v.tr. (also -ise). federalization n. federally adv.
Etymology: L foedus -eris league, covenant
Useful english dictionary. 2012.