Federal
|Fed/er/al|
/ˈfɛdərəl/
central government
Etymology
'Federal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'foedus,' where 'foedus' meant 'covenant' or 'treaty.'
'Foedus' transformed into the French word 'fédéral,' and eventually became the modern English word 'federal' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to a treaty or agreement,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to a system of government.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to a system of government in which several states form a unity but remain independent in internal affairs.
The federal government has the power to regulate trade between states.
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Adjective 2
pertaining to the central government of a federation as opposed to the governments of its member units.
Federal laws apply to all states within the country.
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Last updated: 2025/03/16 02:02