Main Entry: pe·remp·to·ry

Pronunciation: \pə-ˈrem(p)-t(ə-)rē\

Function: adjective

Etymology: 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

Date: 15th century

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>

synonyms see masterful

— 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