adjective

peremptory

puh-REMP-tuh-ree/pəˈremptəri/

Demanding compliance without allowing refusal or debate.

The man's peremptory gesture commands the woman to sit without debate.

An older man cuts off a young woman's attempted objection with a firm raised palm while pointing decisively to an empty chair, commanding her to sit without debate.

Etymology

perLatinaway entirely

+emptLatintake

+oryLatinrelating to

Taking away entirely becomes destroying or cutting off. From “destructive,” the adjective developed the legal force of “decisive, final,” then described people or commands that allow no refusal or debate.

In context

Storytime Haven359:03

In a harsh peremptory voice he said--"Show me your son's room."

🌑 The Moon Rock 🌒 | A Haunting Tale of Mystery and Ambition by Arthur J. Rees

More examples

The manager issues a peremptory order to leave the building.
He cuts off our questions with a peremptory wave.
“Sit down now,” she says in a peremptory voice.

Forms

peremptory

peremptorily adverb — In a manner allowing no objection.

Similar words

imperious: Emphasizes an overbearing manner that expects unquestioning obedience.
dictatorial: Suggests oppressive control over others, beyond a single demand.