finding

noun

find·​ing ˈfīn-diŋ 

1

a

: the act of one that finds

b

: find sense 2

2

findings plural : small tools and supplies used by an artisan (such as a dressmaker, jeweler, or shoemaker)

3

a

: the result of a judicial examination or inquiry

b

: the results of an investigation

—usually used in plural

Synonyms

• doom
• holding
• judgment
• judgement
• ruling
• sentence

Examples of finding in a Sentence

She published her findings in a medical journal.

The evidence supported a finding of unfair bias.

Recent Examples on the Web

The task force plans to release its findings publicly soon. —Eileen Sullivan, New York Times, 6 Dec. 2024

The committee does not generally release its findings on members who exit Congress. —Tara Suter, The Hill, 5 Dec. 2024

After the outside review, the chemical industry seized on its findings as evidence of fundamental problems at the agency. —Sharon Lerner and Al Shaw, CNN, 5 Dec. 2024

The task force's investigation Made up of seven Republicans and six Democrats, the panel is expected to submit a report of its findings in the coming weeks. —Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

finding

noun

find·​ing

ˈfīn-diŋ

1

: find entry 2

2

: the result of a judicial proceeding or inquiry

Legal Definition

finding

noun

find·​ing

: a determination resulting from judicial or administrative examination or inquiry (as at trial) especially into matters of fact as embodied in the verdict of a jury or decision of a court, referee, or administrative body or officer

also, usually plural : a written statement of such determinations see also factfinding compare decision, holding, opinion, ruling

— finding of fact

: a determination made by the trier of fact as to a factual issue based on the evidence presented in a case

Note: Conclusions of law are based on findings of fact.

— finding of law

: a court's determination of the law as applied to a case : conclusion of law

— general finding

: a finding that the facts in general support a judgment in favor of one of the parties

— special finding

: a finding setting out the ultimate facts upon which the court's judgment is based