ultra vires

[uhl-truh vahy-reez]

adverb, adjective Law.

beyond the legal power or authority of a corporation, corporate officer, etc. (opposed to intra vires).

Origin of ultra vires

First recorded in 1785–95, ultra vires is from the Latin word ultrā vīrēs literally, beyond strength

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for ultra vires

ultra vires

adverb, adjective

(predicative) law beyond the legal power or authority of a person, corporation, agent, etc

Word Origin for ultra vires

Latin, literally: beyond strength

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for ultra vires

Latin, literally "beyond powers," from vires "strength, force, vigor, power," plural of vis.