Im*per"a*tive (?), a. [L.
imperativus, fr. imperare to command; pref. im-
in + parare to make ready, prepare: cf. F.
impératif. See Perade, and cf. Empire.]
1. Expressive of command; containing positive
command; authoritatively or absolutely directive; commanding;
authoritative; as, imperative orders.
The suit of kings are imperative.
Bp. Hall.
2. Not to be avoided or evaded; obligatory;
binding; compulsory; as, an imperative duty or
order.
3. (Gram.) Expressive of commund,
entreaty, advice, or exhortation; as, the imperative mood.
Im*per"a*tive, n. (Gram.)
The imperative mood; also, a verb in the imperative
mood.