en
federalism
/ˈfɛd.ər.əl.ɪz.əm/
Definition
1
A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces.
2
The advocacy or principle of organizing government according to this division of powers.
Examples
Switzerland's federalism is like a multilingual family dinner where everyone speaks their own dialect but passes the fondue pot.
In the US, federalism means the states can set their own quirky laws, like banning certain sodas while the feds handle the fireworks.
Debating federalism feels like arguing over who controls the thermostat in a shared apartment—central heat or local vibes?
Canada's federalism keeps Quebec happy with its poutine sovereignty while Ottawa pretends to share the maple syrup equally.