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vires

British  
/ ˈvaɪriːz /

noun

  1. the plural of vis

"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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The process that was adopted in relation to the flag was plainly incorrect, ultra vires and clearly cannot be sustained in law," counsel said.

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025

For instance, just beyond the unions’ ultra vires argument—i.e., the OPM can’t promise money that Congress hasn’t appropriated—is the fact that the Congressional Budget Office hasn’t produced a cost estimate, as is mandated by law.

From Slate • Feb. 7, 2025

More broadly, Kempf said, the bills would pose risks to schools and educators in the form of potential ultra vires claims, which enable citizens to sue public officials who violate state laws.

From Salon • Jan. 10, 2023

Having been burned so badly for her participation in post-9/11 interrogations, she is likely to be on her guard against future orders to act ultra vires.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2018

The moment it passes beyond these boundaries, its actions become ultra vires and tyrannical.

From Exempting the Churches An Argument for the Abolition of This Unjust and Unconstitutional Practice by James F. Morton. Jr.