A Confederate refers to a person or group that is a part of, supports, or is affiliated with the Confederate States of America, which was a collection of states that seceded from the United States during the American Civil War (1861-1865).

Confederate can have the following meanings:

1. A citizen or soldier from the Confederate States of America.
2. Someone who supports, sympathizes with, or advocates for the values, beliefs, or symbols associated with the Confederacy.
3. In a broader sense, it can refer to any alliance or coalition formed among individuals or groups sharing a common goal or interest.

Confederate is often used in historical and political contexts, and can carry different connotations depending on the perspective of the speaker or writer. It is crucial to consider the sensitivity and implications when using the term, as it represents a contentious period in American history.