Confederate: meaning, definitions and examples

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confederate

 

[ kənˈfɛd.ə.rət ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

historical context

A confederate is a member of a league or alliance, particularly referring to an individual or group that joined a confederation during a specific historical period. Most commonly, this term is associated with the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War, where it referred to states and individuals that seceded from the Union.

Synonyms

ally, associate, partner

Examples of usage

  • The confederates fought bravely during the battle.
  • Many confederates held strong beliefs about states' rights.
  • He studied the strategies used by the confederates.
  • The confederate flag remains a controversial symbol.
Context #2 | Adjective

political alliance

The term confederate, as an adjective, refers to something related to a confederation or alliance, particularly in the context of political or military associations. This usage emphasizes a cooperative relationship among separate entities, often with shared goals or purposes.

Synonyms

allied, cooperative, joint

Examples of usage

  • Confederate forces gathered for a strategic meeting.
  • The confederate governments worked together to negotiate terms.
  • Her confederate endeavors led to significant reforms.
  • They planned a confederate response to the crisis.

Translations

Translations of the word "confederate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 confederado

🇮🇳 संघीय

🇩🇪 Konföderierte

🇮🇩 konfederasi

🇺🇦 конфедерат

🇵🇱 konfederat

🇯🇵 連邦の

🇫🇷 confédéré

🇪🇸 confederado

🇹🇷 konfederat

🇰🇷 연합의

🇸🇦 اتحادي

🇨🇿 konfederační

🇸🇰 konfederačný

🇨🇳 联邦的

🇸🇮 konfederat

🇮🇸 sambandsmaður

🇰🇿 конфедерат

🇬🇪 კონფედერატული

🇦🇿 konfederat

🇲🇽 confederado

Word origin

The word 'confederate' comes from the Latin term 'confoederatus', which means 'joined together' or 'in alliance'. This term emerged in the English language during the 15th century, primarily to describe nations or groups that were formed into a league for political or military cooperation. The meaning evolved to notably reference the Confederate States of America, which were a group of 11 southern states that seceded from the Union during the American Civil War in the 1860s. This historical significance has influenced its modern usage, associating the term with themes of rebellion, alliances, and political strife. Additionally, 'confederate' often carries connotations of solidarity and shared purpose, reflecting its origins in alliances formed to achieve common goals.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,852, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.