peremptory
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.pe·remp·to·ry
adjective \pə-ˈrem(p)-t(ə-)rē\Definition of PEREMPTORY
1
a : putting an end to or precluding a right of action, debate, or delay; specifically : not providing an opportunity to show cause why one should not comply <a peremptory mandamus> b : admitting of no contradiction
2
: expressive of urgency or command <a peremptory call>
3
a : characterized by often imperious or arrogant self-assurance <how insolent of late he is become, how proud, how peremptory — Shakespeare> b : indicative of a peremptory attitude or nature : haughty <a peremptory tone> <peremptory disregard of an objection>
— pe·remp·to·ri·ly \-ˈrem(p)-t(ə-)rə-lē; -ˌrem(p)-ˈtȯr-ə-lē\ adverb
— pe·remp·to·ri·ness \-ˈrem(p)-t(ə-)rē-nəs\ noun
See Examples of PEREMPTORY
- Her peremptory tone angered me.
- <the governor's peremptory personal assistant began telling the crowd of reporters and photographers exactly where they had to stand>
Origin of PEREMPTORY
Middle English peremptorie, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin & Latin; Late Latin peremptorius, from Latin, destructive, from perimere to take entirely, destroy, from per- thoroughly + emere to take — more at redeem
First Known Use: 15th century
Related to PEREMPTORY
- Synonyms
- authoritarian, authoritative, autocratic (also autocratical), despotic, dictatorial, domineering, imperious, masterful, overbearing, bossy, tyrannical (also tyrannic), tyrannous
See Synonym Discussion at masterful
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