imperiously

[ im-peer-ee-uhs-lee ]

adverb

1. in a domineering or haughty manner:

   She held out her hand imperiously, but the messenger did not immediately hand over the letter.

2. in an imperative way; urgently:

   The need to be accepted can be felt as imperiously as the needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

Other Words From

• non·im·pe·ri·ous·ly adverb
• un·im·pe·ri·ous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of imperiously¹

imperious ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Even with growth faltering in China, Xi Jinping appears imperiously assured that he possesses the right road map to surpass Western rivals.

From New York Times

But Linda imperiously demurs, telling Dot she owes her nothing and referring to the abuse she sustained as a choice.

From Salon

The reason Trump is being indicted for all these crimes is not because the "deep state" is out to get him but because he imperiously insists he is above the law and continually breaks it.

From Salon

For most of the play, Jabe is heard rather than seen, making his presence felt by imperiously knocking on the floor of the couple’s quarters, which are above the store.

From New York Times

Appearing briefly before a court in Mombasa this month, Mr. Mackenzie, 50, wearing a pink jacket, cut a jaunty figure as he waved imperiously from inside a metal cage to get the magistrate’s attention.

From New York Times

Related Words

• compellingly
• eagerly
• earnestly
• frantically
• hastily
• vigorously