1. a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units (such as states or provinces)
Usage: political science
2. the principles or advocacy of federal government
Usage: political theory

Examples

• The United States Constitution established a system of federalism.
• Canadian federalism divides powers between the federal and provincial governments.
• The debate over federalism shaped early American politics.
• Many countries have adopted federalism to balance central and regional authority.
• Federalism allows states to maintain some independence while being part of a larger union.
• The principles of federalism were hotly contested during the Constitutional Convention.