Dictionary definition of ultimatum

It is a final demand or statement of terms, given with the implication that if the terms are not accepted, further negotiations or discussions will be terminated. It is a strong and clear statement of what is expected, or a demand for action, with a clear warning that if the demand is not met, the relationship or situation will be ended or will change in a significant way.

In political and diplomatic contexts, an ultimatum is often issued by one country or group to another, outlining specific demands or actions that must be taken in order for a peaceful resolution to be reached, or to avoid a war or a crisis. In a business context, an ultimatum can be issued by an employer to an employee, a buyer to a seller or a client to a service provider, outlining specific demands or conditions that must be met in order to continue a business relationship.

In general, an ultimatum implies that the issuer of the ultimatum is willing to take drastic measures if their demands are not met, and it can signal the end of a negotiation or a relation if not accepted. It is a clear, direct and final statement of what is expected and what the consequences will be if the demands are not met.