Main Entry:

im·pe·ri·ous

Pronunciation:

\im-ˈpir-ē-əs\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Latin imperiosus, from imperium

Date:

1540

1 a: befitting or characteristic of one of eminent rank or attainments : commanding, dominant <an imperious manner> b: marked by arrogant assurance : domineering2: intensely compelling : urgent <the imperious problems of the new age — J. F. Kennedy>

synonyms see masterful

— im·pe·ri·ous·ly adverb

— im·pe·ri·ous·ness noun