First Known Use: 1731
Dictionary
ultimatum
noun ul·ti·ma·tum \ˌəl-tə-ˈmā-təm, -ˈmä-\
: a final threat : a promise that force or punishment will be used if someone does not do what is wanted
plural ul·ti·ma·tums or ul·ti·ma·ta \-tə\
Full Definition of ULTIMATUM
: a final proposition, condition, or demand; especially : one whose rejection will end negotiations and cause a resort to force or other direct action
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Origin of ULTIMATUM
New Latin, from Medieval Latin, neuter of ultimatus final
Related to ULTIMATUM
- Synonyms
- claim, dun, importunity, requisition, demand
ULTIMATA Defined for Kids
ultimatum
noun ul·ti·ma·tum \ˌəl-tə-ˈmā-təm\
plural ul·ti·ma·tums or ul·ti·ma·ta \-ˈmā-tə\
Definition of ULTIMATUM for Kids
: a final condition or demand that if rejected could end future negotiations and lead to forceful or undesirable action
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