​PEREMPTORY, an adjective adapted from the Roman law term peremptorily edictum, peremptoria exceptio, a decree or plea which put an end to or quashed (Lat. perimere, to destroy) an action, hence decisive, final. A similar use is found in English law in “peremptory challenge, ” a challenge to a jury allowed to a prisoner without cause shown, or “ peremptory mandamus, " an absolute command. The natural repugnance to a final order has given this word in its ordinary usage a sense of objectionable and intolerant emphasis.