Originally U.S. Also with capital initial. Favouring the establishment or principles of a federal government. Later chiefly in names of political…

Of, relating to, or characterized by opposition to federalism in the early years of American independence.

= republican, adj. 3a. Also as n.

U.S. Politics. Before or during the American Civil War (1861–5): of the character of a dough face (see dough face, n. 3); supportive of or…

U.S. Politics. Of or relating to the modern Republican Party (see Republican Party n. at compounds 1), its principles, policies, etc.

Conservative, old-fashioned.

Designating a native or inhabitant of the Southern states not reconciled to the defeat of the Confederacy in the American Civil War (1861–5) and…

That is a reservationist (sense A. 2); holding or advocating the views of the reservationists. Now historical.

Designating an attitude or organization that aims to put the interests of the U.S. before those of the international community; (also) of or…

Of, relating to, resembling, or characteristic of McCarthy or McCarthyism.