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.
The plural of “ultimatum” can be “ultimatums” or “ultimata.” Merriam-Webster records both forms.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Meaning / situation | Form / construction | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| one ultimatum | ultimatum | Use the singular form. |
| regular English plural | ultimatums | Accepted plural. |
| Latin-derived plural | ultimata | Also recorded. |
Quick tests
Meaning / construction test
Do you need the plural of “ultimatum”?
If yes: Use either “ultimatums” or “ultimata,” following register and house style consistently.
If no: Use singular “ultimatum” for one.
Caveat: Both plurals are recorded; do not present the Latin-derived form as the only correct plural when the regular English form is also accepted.
Examples
The letter contains one ultimatum.
One takes the singular “ultimatum.”
The chapter discusses several ultimatums.
“Ultimatums” is an accepted plural.
The historical glossary uses ultimata.
“Ultimata” is also a recorded plural form.
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.
- ultimatum — Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Merriam-Webster · Direct dictionary evidence that ultimatum has the competing plurals ultimatums and ultimata.