Probate Code § 613
CHAPTER 2. Definitions; Classification of Powers of Appointment
A power of appointment is “imperative” where the creating instrument manifests an intent that the permissible appointees be benefited even if the powerholder fails to exercise the power. An imperative power can exist even though the powerholder has the privilege of selecting some and excluding others of the designated permissible appointees. All other powers of appointment are “discretionary.” The powerholder of a discretionary power is privileged to exercise, or not to exercise, the power as the powerholder chooses.