Definition of: imperious

(im·pir′ē·əs) adjective
1. Assuming and determined to command; domineering; arrogant.
2. Urgent; imperative.
3. Obs. Imperial; lordly. [<L imperiosus]
—im·pe′ri·ous·ly adverb
—im·pe′ri·ous·ness noun Synonyms: arbitrary, arrogant, authoritative, commanding, controlling, despotic, dictatorial, dogmatic, domineering, exacting, haughty, imperative, irresistible, lordly, overbearing. An imperious demand or requirement may have in it nothing offensive; it is simply one that resolutely insists upon compliance, and will not brook refusal; an arrogant demand is offensive by its tone of superiority, an arbitrary demand by its unreasonableness; an imperious disposition is liable to become arbitrary and arrogant. A person of an independent spirit is inclined to resent an imperious manner in anyone, especially in one whose superiority or authority is not clearly recognized. Commanding is always used in a good sense; as, a commanding appearance; a commanding eminence. See ARBITRARY, DOGMATIC. Antonyms: complaisant, compliant, docile, ductile, gentle, humble, lenient, lowly, meek, mild, submissive.