FEDERAL Meaning and
Definition
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Federal refers to a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional or local entities. This term is often associated with countries or states that have established a federal system, acknowledging the need for both national unity and regional autonomy. It can also be used to describe institutions, laws, or processes that relate to this relationship.
In a federal system, the central government possesses certain powers and responsibilities that apply to the entire country or state, such as defense, foreign policy, and monetary policy. At the same time, individual regions or states within the federation have their own powers and autonomy in specific areas like education, healthcare, and transportation. This division of powers is established through a written constitution, which outlines the authorities and limitations of both national and regional governments.
The term "federal" can also refer to the principle of federalism, which aims to strike a balance between centralized control and regional diversity. As such, it promotes cooperation and coordination between the different levels of government, often through shared decision-making processes and cooperation agreements.
Beyond governance, "federal" can also describe institutions or legislation that operate at the national level—uniting all states or regions. For example, a federal court would have jurisdiction over cases that involve federal laws or matters of national importance.
Overall, "federal" connotes a system, principle, or entity that involves the division of powers or resources between a central authority and regional or local entities within a country or state.
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• Pert. to a league; consisting in a compact or agreement between nations, or between the several states of a nation, as in Switzerland or America.
• In Amer., one who advocates the strengthening of the central government.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for FEDERAL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for FEDERAL
Etymology of FEDERAL
The word "federal" comes from the Latin word "foedus", meaning "covenant" or "league". In the late 16th century, the term "federal" emerged in English and was initially used to describe the relationship between sovereign states forming a federation or an alliance. It later became associated with the concept of a central government sharing powers with regional or state governments, as seen in federal systems like that of the United States.
Idioms with the word FEDERAL
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make a federal case out of
The idiom "make a federal case out of" means to exaggerate the seriousness or significance of an issue or situation that doesn't inherently warrant such attention or importance. It often implies someone becoming overly dramatic, making something seem more complicated or problematic than it actually is. It is derived from the formal legal proceedings that take place at the federal level, implying an unnecessary escalation or excessive reaction.
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make a federal case (out) of sth
The idiom "make a federal case (out) of something" means to exaggerate or over-dramatize a situation, making it seem more important or serious than it actually is. It originates from the American legal system, where a federal case refers to a lawsuit or legal matter handled by the federal courts. So, making a federal case out of something implies treating it as a significant legal matter, blowing it out of proportion, or creating unnecessary drama and attention around it.
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make a federal case of
To "make a federal case of" means to exaggerate or overreact to a situation, often by treating it as more serious or significant than it actually is. This idiomatic expression is derived from the American legal system, where a case tried in a federal court is typically perceived as having higher importance or gravity than a case in a state court.
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Don’t make a federal case out of it!
The idiom "Don't make a federal case out of it!" means not to exaggerate or overreact about a small issue or situation. It suggests that one should not make something seem more serious or complicated than it actually is.
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federal case
The idiom "federal case" refers to an overreaction or exaggerated level of seriousness and importance given to a situation or issue. It suggests that someone is making a big deal out of something that is actually not as significant, similar to how a minor issue might be blown out of proportion and treated as a federal crime.
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make a federal case (out) of (something)
The idiom "make a federal case (out) of (something)" means to exaggerate or make an unnecessary fuss or big deal over a minor issue or situation. It implies that someone is blowing things out of proportion and treating a simple matter as if it were very serious or important. This phrase is often used to criticize someone for making things more complicated or difficult than they need to be.
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federal diploma
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federal jug
Similar spelling words for FEDERAL
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