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final

SayFY-nuhl/ˈfaɪn(ə)l/UK/ˈfaɪnl̩/

Noun pluralfinals

9 meanings of final

Practice

  1. 1
    lastadjective
    Last in a series or process, or at the end of a word.

    Like the last step on a staircase, with nothing above it.

    This is the final chapter of the book.

    The final whistle ended the game.

    UsageUsually used before a noun, like the final day or the final whistle.

    Similarlast, closing, concluding, ultimate

    Oppositefirst, initial, opening

    Note
  2. 2
    last matchnouncountable
    The last game or match that decides who wins a contest.

    Like the last race that decides who wins the trophy.

    Our team reached the final for the first time.

    She scored the winning goal in the final.

    UsageTeams reach the final or win the final.

    Similardecider, showdown

    Note
  3. 3
    decisiveadjective
    So settled that nothing more can be changed or argued.

    Like locking a door for good, so it can't be opened again.

    The judge's ruling was final, and no one could appeal it.

    Her answer was final, and she would not change her mind.

    UsageWe say the answer is final.

    Similarconclusive, definitive, binding, irrevocable, decisive

    Oppositeprovisional, tentative

    Note

Practice

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Origin

It comes from Latin fīnis, meaning "end," through the Latin word fīnālis and Old French final.

Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 2 facts