federation

[fed-uh-rey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of federating or uniting in a league.

2. the formation of a political unity, with a central government, by a number of separate states, each of which retains control of its own internal affairs.

3. a league or confederacy.

4. a federated body formed by a number of nations, states, societies, unions, etc., each retaining control of its own internal affairs.

federation

¹

/ ˌfɛdəˈreɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of federating

2. the union of several provinces, states, etc, to form a federal union

3. a political unit formed in such a way

4. any league, alliance, or confederacy

5. a union of several parties, groups, etc

6. any association or union for common action

Federation

²

/ ˌfɛdəˈreɪʃən /

noun

1. the federation of the Australian colonies in 1901

2. a style of domestic architecture of that period, characterized by red brick, terracotta roof tiles, sinuous curves, and heavy window frames

Other Word Forms

• interfederation noun
• profederation adjective
• refederation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of federation¹

1715–25; < Late Latin foederātiōn- (stem of foederātiō ) a leaguing. See federate, -ion

Example Sentences

A World Cup the federation has been pointing to for years is just nine months away and much is riding on the U.S. team’s performance.

From Los Angeles Times

Earlier this year, World Aquatics became the first international sport federation to ban athletes, coaches and officials from its events if they have taken part in the Enhanced Games.

From BBC

Soccer, will do something that has never been done before when she becomes the first female national federation head to preside over a World Cup.

From Los Angeles Times

Soccer, will do something that has never been done before when she becomes the first female national federation head to preside over soccer’s biggest tournament.

From Los Angeles Times

“If you’re an Olympic federation from a specific country, you’ll be here all year training athletes before the Games begin,” Stark said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• association 
• league 
• union