federalism

[fed-er-uh-liz-uhm] / ˈfɛd ər əˌlɪz əm /

NOUN

advocacy of a strong central government

Synonyms

STRONG

unionism unitarianism

WEAK

republicanism

Antonyms

STRONGEST

antifederalism

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Another important theme of 2025, and one too often overlooked: federalism.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 24, 2025

"We want federalism for the Syrian coast," she added.

From Barron's • Nov. 25, 2025

This is a new way of thinking about states and federalism and state power.

From Slate • Nov. 18, 2025

There still is something called federalism in the United States.

From Salon • Jan. 29, 2025

They supported Chief Buthelezi’s desire to retain Zulu power and identity in a new South Africa by preaching to him the doctrine of group rights and federalism.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela