I. im-ˈper-ə-tiv, -ˈpe-rə- adjective
Etymology: Middle English imperatyf, from Late Latin imperativus, from Latin imperatus, past participle of imperare to command — more at emperor
Date: 15th century
1.
a. : of, relating to, or constituting the grammatical mood that expresses the will to influence the behavior of another
b. : expressive of a command, entreaty, or exhortation
c. : having power to restrain, control, and direct
2. : not to be avoided or evaded : necessary
an imperative duty
Synonyms: see masterful
• im·per·a·tive·ly adverb
• im·per·a·tive·ness noun
II. noun
Date: 1530
1. : the imperative mood or a verb form or verbal phrase expressing it
2. : something that is imperative: as
a. : command , order
b. : rule , guide
c. : an obligatory act or duty
d. : an imperative judgment or proposition