FED'ERAL, adjective [from Latin faedus, a league, allied perhaps to Eng. wed. Latin vas, vadis, vador, vadimonium. See Heb. to pledge.]

1. Pertaining to a league or contract; derived from an agreement or covenant between parties, particularly between nations.

The Romans, contrary to federal right, compelled them to part with Sardinia.

2. Consisting in a compact between parties, particularly and chiefly between states or nations; founded on alliance by contract or mutual agreement; as a federal government, such as that of the United States.

3. Friendly to the constitution of the United States. [See the Noun.]