federal law

American  

[fed-er-uhl law] / ˈfɛd ər əl ˈlɔ /

noun

1. a law or body of laws passed by the central government of the United States or of any other country comprising states, provinces, or other quasi-autonomous units.

   This act to protect migratory birds is a federal law enforcing an international agreement to which the United States is a party.

   She is an expert on federal law.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

federal law

The defendants have pursued various strategies to have the case dismissed before reaching trial, including arguing that federal law preempts the legal claims raised in the lawsuit.

From Slate ● Sep. 29, 2026

Berkeley denies the findings, citing compliance with state and federal law.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 23, 2026

David Truesdale, a retired federal law enforcement agent who moved to the county to get away from city life, says he became involved after learning that a neighbouring solar project would sit near his home.

From BBC ● Sep. 23, 2026

Medicaid benefits vary by state, but federal law requires coverage of inpatient and outpatient hospital services, doctor visits, lab tests, X-rays, home health services and other benefits.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 22, 2026

Langley Air Force Base and Fort Monroe moved forward to integrate the housing and the schools on their bases; as federal outposts, they were bound to comply with federal law.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly