federalism
Federalism (noun) means a system of government in which power is shared between one central authority and a set of regional governments, each with its own areas of control that the other cannot simply override. Example: “Federalism means education is run by the states rather than from the capital.”
How to Use Federalism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA country where the national government and the regional ones each hold real power of their own.
Neutral and academic; standard vocabulary in politics, law and history.
In American history, capital-F Federalism also names the early party and movement that favoured a strong national government, so context decides which is meant.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ means education is run by the states rather than from the capital.
Etymology
From federal, which comes from Latin foedus, foeder- 'league, covenant, treaty', plus the suffix -ism denoting a doctrine or system.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related Words
Rhymes for federalism
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between federalism and a confederation?
Under federalism the central government has real authority that acts directly on citizens, and neither level can abolish the other. In a confederation the member states keep sovereignty and the central body only has powers they choose to lend it, which they can withdraw.
What is the difference between federalism and devolution?
Federalism divides power constitutionally, so regional powers cannot be removed by the centre alone. Devolution hands powers down from a central parliament that still holds ultimate authority and could in principle take them back.
Which countries use federalism?
Among the best-known examples are the United States, Germany, India, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Switzerland and Nigeria. The details vary widely, particularly over how tax revenue is split and which level controls courts and policing.