Confederation - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A confederation is a union of independent states or groups that join together for a common purpose while retaining their individual sovereignty. It is often formed for political or economic cooperation.
Definition:
A union of states or groups united for a common purpose while retaining some independence.
Synonyms:
alliance, federation, league, coalition
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
separation, division
Common Collocations:
political confederation, loose confederation, form a confederation, join a confederation
Derivatives:
confederate, confederative
Usage Tips:
Use "confederation" to describe a cooperative alliance where members retain autonomy, unlike a centralized federation.
Common Phrases:
Articles of Confederation, Swiss Confederation, confederation of states
Etymology:
From Latin "con-" (together) + "foederare" (to ally), via French "confédération."
Examples:
- 1. The European Union began as an economic confederation before deepening integration.
- 2. The Iroquois Confederacy was a powerful Native American confederation in North America.
- 3. Canada was originally a confederation of British colonies before becoming a unified country.
- 4. The trade unions formed a temporary confederation to negotiate better wages collectively.