ultimatum

noun

ul·​ti·​ma·​tum ˌəl-tə-ˈmā-təm  -ˈmä- 

plural ultimatums or ultimata ˌəl-tə-ˈmā-tə 

-ˈmä-

: a final proposition, condition, or demand

especially : one whose rejection will end negotiations and cause a resort to force or other direct action

Synonyms

• claim
• demand
• dun
• importunity
• requisition

Examples of ultimatum in a Sentence

She was given an ultimatum—work harder or lose her job.

issued the ultimatum that the project be finished by the following week, or it would be terminated

Recent Examples on the Web

After being disappointed by Vi one time too many, the Queen decides to test her daughter’s mettle once and for all and issues an ultimatum: Vi must pass a vigorous leadership boot camp in Colorado or lose the throne to her uncle. —EW.com, 18 Oct. 2024

The letter is the clearest ultimatum yet to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government since the Gaza conflict began a year ago, raising the prospect of a shift in Washington's support for Israel. —Michael Collins, USA TODAY, 16 Oct. 2024

Fox told the Times that West issued her an ultimatum toward the end of their relationship. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2024

This groundbreaking series premiered in 2023 and showcases a diverse cast of couples, made up of women and non-binary people, facing the same ultimatum: marry or break up. —Jane Lacroix, Peoplemag, 21 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Medieval Latin, neuter of ultimatus final

First Known Use

1731, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

ultimatum

noun

ul·​ti·​ma·​tum ˌəl-tə-ˈmāt-əm  -ˈmät- 

plural ultimatums or ultimata -ə 

: a demand that if rejected will bring about an end of peaceful talks and could lead to forceful action