finial

noun

fin·​i·​al ˈfi-nē-əl How to pronounce finial (audio)
1
: a usually foliated ornament forming an upper extremity especially in Gothic architecture
2
: a crowning ornament or detail (such as a decorative knob)

Examples of finial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Wright included Barnsdall’s favorite flower, hollyhocks, throughout the design, including roof finials, furniture, art glass windows, and ornamental friezes and accents. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Aug. 2024 Approximately 125 samples were collected from siding, shingles, trim, windows, doors, and finials. Claudia Williams, Architectural Digest, 6 Aug. 2024 Some remnants of the tower—like the top finial—can now be seen in the attic of the home. Claudia Williams, Architectural Digest, 26 July 2024 These include everything from a horse bust in the front yard and a welcome mat at the door, to finials on the fence posts and stepping stones that Armstrong painted herself. Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 20 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for finial 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'finial.' 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

Middle English, from final, finial final

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of finial was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near finial

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on finial

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!