finality

noun

fi·​nal·​i·​ty fī-ˈna-lə-tē 

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

His exit from the makeshift hospital does seem to have a hint of finality to it, though. —Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 17 Jan. 2025

The Design Legacy Lost: The finality of the wildfires’ destruction has taken many cherished buildings that showed the city’s great architectural diversity. —Jennifer Medina, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025

The potential gaps call into question the finality of a ceasefire and hostage deal that negotiators hoped would start by Sunday. —Laura Kelly, The Hill, 16 Jan. 2025

The Nakamoto Upgrade allowed Stacks to inherit 100% Bitcoin finality and introduced faster block speeds, significantly improving user experience. —Leeor Shimron, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

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

Kids Definition

finality

noun

fi·​nal·​i·​ty fī-ˈnal-ət-ē 

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- 

1

: the state or condition of being final

2

: the principle that appeals may only be taken from final orders or judgments