FEDERAL

Definitions

1. 1. Pertaining to a league or treaty; derived from an agreement or covenant between parties, especially between nations; constituted by a compact between parties, usually governments or their representatives. The Romans compelled them, contrary to all federal right, . . . to part with Sardinia. Grew.
2. 2. Specifically:
3. 3. Composed of states or districts which retain only a subordinate and limited sovereignty, as the Union of the United States, or the Sonderbund of Switzerland.
4. 4. Consisting or pertaining to such a government; as, the Federal Constitution; a Federal officer.
5. 5. Friendly or devoted to such a government; as, the Federal party. see Federalist. Federal Congress. See under Congress.