Dictionary entry

Peremptory

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Per″emp‐to‐ry (?), a. [L. peremptorius destructive, deadly, decisive, final: cf. F. péremptorie. See Perempt.] 1. Precluding debate or expostulation; not admitting of question or appeal; positive; absolute; decisive; conclusive; final.

Think of heaven with hearty purposes and peremptory designs to get thither. Jer. Taylor.

2. Positive in opinion or judgment; decided; dictatorial; dogmatical.

Be not too positive and peremptory. Bacon.

Briefly, then, for we are peremptory. Shak.

3. Firmly determined; unawed. Shak.

Peremptory challenge(Law) See under Challenge. — Peremptory mandamus, a final and absolute mandamus. — Peremptory plea, a plea by a defendant tending to impeach the plaintiff's right of action; a plea in bar.

Syn. — Decisive; positive; absolute; authoritative; express; arbitrary; dogmatical.