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

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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.