federalist

//ˈfɛd.ər.əl.ɪst//
C1Frequency Level 12Formal
Visual representation of federalist

Noun

federalistSingular
federalistsPlural
1

A person who advocates or supports a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

The federalists argued that a strong central government was necessary to maintain unity among the states.

2

A member or supporter of the Federalist Party in early United States history, which advocated for a strong central government.

Alexander Hamilton was a prominent federalist who helped shape the new nation's financial system.

Synonym

unionistcentralist

Antonym

separatistsecessionist

Adjective

federalistCanonical form
1

Relating to or supporting federalism or a federal system of government.

The federalist approach to governance allows states to maintain some autonomy.