GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Ultimatum , n.; pl. E. Ultimatums , L. Ultimata . [NL. See Ultimate.]
   A final proposition, concession, or condition; especially, the final propositions, conditions, or terms, offered by either of the parties in a diplomatic negotiation; the most favorable terms that a negotiator can offer, the rejection of which usually puts an end to the hesitation.
   1913 Webster
   A final demand, the rejection of which may lead to a resort to force or other compelling action by the party presenting the ultimatum.  In international diplomacy, an ultimatum may be used as by the demanding country as a signal to other countries that it gave the other country a seemingly reasonable opportunity to avoid a war; in this way, the demanding country may seek to avoid responsibility for starting a war.
   PJC
   
   1913 Webster