Definition of federalism
1a often capitalized : the distribution of power in an organization (such as a government) between a central authority and the constituent (see 2constituent 1) units under our system of federalism, states bear the primary responsibility for defining and controlling criminal behavior — W. R. LaFave & J. R. Israel — compare centralismb : support or advocacy of this principle
2 capitalized : Federalist principles
From the M-W Editors
Recent Examples of federalism from the Web
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Resolution, however, hinges on Myanmar’s willingness to cede power to minorities and facilitate greater federalism.
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Resolution, however, hinges on Myanmar’s willingness to cede power to minorities and facilitate greater federalism.
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Resolution, however, hinges on Myanmar’s willingness to cede power to minorities and facilitate greater federalism.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'federalism'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of federalism
1787
Other Government and Politics Terms
Law Dictionary
federalism
playLegal Definition of federalism
: distribution of power in a federation between the central authority and the constituent units (as states) involving especially the allocation of significant lawmaking powers to those constituent units — compare comity, full faith and credit, states' rights
Learn More about federalism
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See words that rhyme with federalism Spanish Central: Translation of federalism Nglish: Translation of federalism for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about federalism
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