ultimatum

noun

ul·​ti·​ma·​tum ˌəl-tə-ˈmā-təm How to pronounce ultimatum (audio) -ˈmä- How to pronounce ultimatum (audio)
plural ultimatums or ultimata ˌəl-tə-ˈmā-tə How to pronounce ultimatum (audio)
-ˈmä-
Synonyms 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

Synonyms of ultimatum

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to ArtReview, the ministry issued an ultimatum to the foundation, after which they were notified of the restoration of the pavilion’s name. — News Desk, Artforum, 26 Aug. 2026 Displeased with Lane’s effort on a low throw during one practice, Heap followed the wide receiver back to the huddle and offered an ultimatum of sorts. — Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 Hayden Panettiere's mom is detailing the heartbreaking ultimatum that led to their estrangement months before the actress' death. — Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 24 Aug. 2026 Though The Venue’s statement did not mention an ultimatum, Tlaib or rally speakers’ views on Israel, the business said in its statement that The Venue is Jewish-owned and operated. — Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ultimatum

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Medieval Latin, neuter of ultimatus final

First Known Use

1731, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ultimatum was in 1731

Rhymes for ultimatum

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Browse Nearby Words

ultimation
ultimatum
ultimo
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Cite this Entry

“Ultimatum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ultimatum. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ultimatum

noun
ul·​ti·​ma·​tum ˌəl-tə-ˈmāt-əm How to pronounce ultimatum (audio) -ˈmät- How to pronounce ultimatum (audio)
plural ultimatums or ultimata -ə How to pronounce ultimatum (audio)
: a demand that if rejected will bring about an end of peaceful talks and could lead to forceful action
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