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. [ 1913 Webster ] Think of heaven with hearty purposes and peremptory designs to get thither. Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Positive in opinion or judgment; decided; dictatorial; dogmatical. [ 1913 Webster ] Be not too positive and peremptory. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ] Briefly, then, for we are peremptory. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Firmly determined; unawed. [ Poetic ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ] Syn. -- Decisive; positive; absolute; authoritative; express; arbitrary; dogmatical. [ 1913 Webster ] |