Con*fed"er*ate (?), a. [L. confoederatus, p. p. of confoederare to join by a league; con- + foederare to establish by treaty or league, fr. foedus league, compact. See Federal.] 1. United in a league; allied by treaty; engaged in a confederacy; banded together; allied.

All the swords
In Italy, and her confederate arms,
Could not have made this peace.
Shak.

2. (Amer. Hist.) Of or pertaining to the government of the eleven Southern States of the United States which (1860-1865) attempted to establish an independent nation styled the Confederate States of America; as, the Confederate congress; Confederate money.

Con*fed"er*ate, n. 1. One who is united with others in a league; a person or a nation engaged in a confederacy; an ally; also, an accomplice in a bad sense.

He found some of his confederates in gaol.
Macaulay.

2. (Amer. Hist.) A name designating an adherent to the cause of the States which attempted to withdraw from the Union (1860-1865).

Con*fed"er*ate (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Confederated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Confederating (?).] To unite in a league or confederacy; to ally.

With these the Piercies them confederate.
Daniel.

Con*fed"er*ate, v. i. To unite in a league; to join in a mutual contract or covenant; to band together.

By words men . . . covenant and confederate.
South.