peremptory

Main Entry: pe·remp·to·ry

Pronunciation: p&-'rem(p)-t(&-)rE

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

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 b : indicative of a peremptory attitude or nature : HAUGHTY < a peremptory tone >
synonym see MASTERFUL

- pe·remp·to·ri·ly /-'rem(p)-t(&-)r&-lE; -"rem(p)-'tor-&-lE/ adverb
- pe·remp·to·ri·ness /-'rem(p)-t(&-)rE-n&s/ noun