ultimatum

 
Pronunciation: /ʌltɪˈmeɪtəm/

noun (plural ultimatums or ultimata /-tə/)

  • a final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation or a breakdown in relations: their employers issued an ultimatum demanding an immediate return to work

Origin:

mid 18th century: from Latin, neuter past participle of ultimare 'come to an end'

Spelling help

The plural of ultimatum is usually spelled ultimatums, although ultimata (as in the original Latin) is also correct.