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

Monsanto appealed, arguing that his claim is pre-empted by federal law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

"That is clear insider trading and is illegal under federal law," justice department officials said.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

It also called for expedited hearings beginning in June that would "provide a timely and legally compliant pathway to evaluate broader changes to marijuana's status under federal law," a DOJ statement said.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

It’s unprecedented, Sinnar explained, because the state-level designation, while distinct, goes beyond the federal law governing the designation of terrorist organizations, which have been restrained by the First Amendment.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

The Court ruled in 2002 that, under federal law, public housing tenants can be evicted regardless of whether they had knowledge of or participated in alleged criminal activity.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander