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federal

/ˈfɛdəɹəl/

When used as an adjective, "federal" describes things belonging to the central government rather than local or state governments. In American English, when used as a noun (a "federal"), it is often used informally or in crime dramas to refer to FBI or ATF agents.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon; David is in a corporate meeting while Eleanor is at home browsing the news.
Eleanor Smith

DAVID WHY IS A FEDERAL AT THE FRONT DOOR???

Eleanor Smith
David Smith
David Smith

Mom chill. He's just delivering a package, stop freaking out.

💡
Eleanor is using 'federal' as a noun to refer to a government agent (though she is mistaken about the person's identity), reflecting her tendency to overreact and use caps lock. David uses the slang 'chill' to tell her to calm down.

Meanings

adjective

Relating to a system of government in which entities (states) are allied under one central authority.

"The federal government is responsible for national defense and foreign policy."

noun

A member of a federal police force, particularly in the United States.

"The suspect was apprehended by two federals after a short chase."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error