English UsageGrammar guide

Plural of Ultimatum

“Ultimatum” has two documented plural forms: “ultimatums” and “ultimata.” Merriam-Webster records both, so the choice is not a simple correct-versus-incorrect split; use the form that fits the expected register or governing style.

Quick answer

The plural of “ultimatum” can be “ultimatums” or “ultimata.” Merriam-Webster records both forms.

Key details

Confusion Familycompeting classical and English plurals
Rule Familyplural formation
Termsultimatum, ultimatums, ultimata
Variant ScopeMerriam-Webster records both “ultimatums” and “ultimata” as plurals of “ultimatum.”

Further guidance

Core difference

Both “ultimatums” and “ultimata” are recorded plurals of “ultimatum.”

Fast Test

Use either documented plural according to the register and house style; “ultimatums” is the transparent English plural, while “ultimata” preserves the classical pattern.

Usage Boundary

Do not claim that only the Latin-derived plural is correct: the reviewed dictionary explicitly records both forms.

Sources and evidence

Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.

  1. ultimatum — Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Merriam-Webster · Direct dictionary evidence that ultimatum has the competing plurals ultimatums and ultimata.

Explore the topic