finality

noun

fi·​nal·​i·​ty fī-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce finality (audio)
fə-
plural finalities
1
a
: the character or condition of being final, settled, irrevocable, or complete
b
: the condition of being at an ultimate point especially of development or authority
2
: something final
especially : a fundamental fact, action, or belief

Examples of finality in a Sentence

“It won't work,” he said, with an air of finality.
Recent Examples on the Web This article will explore IRC 6501, its connection to Form 4810, and why and how a prompt assessment request may be beneficial for estates or taxpayers seeking finality on their tax liabilities. Ashley Case, Forbes, 9 Oct. 2024 Billy Joel Announces 2025 US Stadium Concerts With Sting, Stevie Nicks For one employee in particular, watching the special actually brought a degree of finality to their time working at The Ellen DeGeneres Show and the stress-inducing news cycle that surrounded the show’s end. Krystie Lee Yandoli, Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 2024 The film explores how its lead finds solace in his life while opening his heart to love, when faced with the finality of existence. Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 23 Sep. 2024 And there’s a sad beauty in the finality of Martha’s decision. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for finality 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'finality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

probably borrowed from French finalité, from final final entry 1 + -ité -ity

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of finality was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near finality

Cite this Entry

“Finality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/finality. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

finality

noun
fi·​nal·​i·​ty fī-ˈnal-ət-ē How to pronounce finality (audio)
fə-
plural finalities
1
: the character or state of being final, settled, or complete
2
: something final

Legal Definition

finality

noun
fi·​nal·​i·​ty fī-ˈna-lə-tē, fə- How to pronounce finality (audio)
1
: the state or condition of being final
2
: the principle that appeals may only be taken from final orders or judgments

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