noun
Uncommon
ultimatum
uhl-tih-MAY-tuhm
Ultimatum (noun) means a final demand or set of terms, often carrying a threat if not accepted by a deadline. Example: “The union gave management an ultimatum: raise wages or face a strike.”
noun
1
A final demand or set of terms, often carrying a threat if not accepted by a deadline.
"The union gave management an ultimatum: raise wages or face a strike."
"He issued an ultimatum: change your behaviour or leave."
How to use ultimatum
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA final "take it or leave it" demand, often with a consequence attached.
Common pairings
issue an ultimatum
give an ultimatum
final ultimatum
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Word forms
- Plural
- ultimatums, ultimata
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The union gave management an _____: raise wages or face a strike.
Etymology
From Latin "ultimatus", meaning "final" — from "ultimus", "last".
Rhymes for ultimatum
See all rhymes for ultimatum →Frequently asked questions
What does “ultimatum” mean?
The word “ultimatum” means a final demand or set of terms, often carrying a threat if not accepted by a deadline. In plain terms, a final "take it or leave it" demand, often with a consequence attached.
How do you pronounce “ultimatum”?
“Ultimatum” is pronounced uhl-tih-MAY-tuhm (/ˌʌl.tɪˈmeɪ.təm/ in IPA).
How do you use “ultimatum” in a sentence?
Here is “ultimatum” used in a sentence: “The union gave management an ultimatum: raise wages or face a strike.”
What part of speech is “ultimatum”?
“Ultimatum” is a noun.
Where does the word “ultimatum” come from?
The word “ultimatum” comes from Latin. From Latin "ultimatus", meaning "final" — from "ultimus", "last".
Is “ultimatum” a common word?
“Ultimatum” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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