Definition of peremptory

acrimonious Definition: (adjective) biting, harsh, caustic. Petersons.com

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< Perelman, S(idney) J(oseph)

perennate >

per·emp·to·ry    (p-rmpt-r) KEY  

ADJECTIVE:

1. Putting an end to all debate or action: a peremptory decree.
2. Not allowing contradiction or refusal; imperative: The officer issued peremptory commands.
3. Having the nature of or expressing a command; urgent: The teacher spoke in a peremptory tone.
4. Offensively self-assured; dictatorial: a swaggering, peremptory manner.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Latin peremptrius, from peremptus, past participle of perimere, to take away : per-, per- + emere, to obtain; see em- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
per·empto·ri·ly (Adverb), per·empto·ri·ness (Noun)

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