adj. 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. federal reserve (in the US) a national system of reserve cash available to banks. federalism n. federalist n. federalize v.tr. (also -ise). federalization n. federally adv.
[ L foedus -eris league, covenant ]