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confederation

kun-fed-er-AY-shun /kənˌfɛdəˈreɪʃən/

nounC1GRESATUPSC

academicpoliticalhistorical

A union of sovereign states united by treaty or agreement to pursue common actions while retaining individual sovereignty.

The central body of a confederation is typically weak and depends entirely on member state consensus.

The story behind the word. From Late Latin 'confoederatio', combining 'con-' (together) with 'foedus' (pact, covenant). It historically designated states allied by treaty without creating a binding national sovereign.

Word relationships

league: 'League' is a broader term for an association, whereas 'confederation' specifically describes a constitutional union of sovereign polities.

unitary state: A unitary state has one supreme central government; a confederation leaves sovereignty with member states.

Commonly confused with

federation: A federation creates a supreme national government; a confederation leaves ultimate sovereignty in its individual member states.

Word family

confederate (noun / adjective): Joined by agreement or treaty.
confederated (adjective): United in an alliance.

Collocations

loose confederation
form a confederation
confederation of states

Example sentences

"Before adopting the Constitution, the original thirteen colonies were loosely organized under the Articles of Confederation." Early American history

Memory hook

CON (together) + FEDER (league) = states banded together while staying sovereign. Loose league of sovereign states.

When not to use

Do not use 'confederation' to describe a strong central federal system like the modern United States.

Fun facts

Switzerland is officially named 'Confoederatio Helvetica' (CH), reflecting its historical origin as a confederation, though today it operates as a federal republic.

Related words

federalism, sovereignty, autonomy

Explore more words

confederacy, federation, treaty, alliance, consensus, league