ending

noun

end·​ing ˈen-diŋ 

: something that constitutes an end: such as

a

: conclusion

a movie with a happy ending

b

: one or more letters or syllables added to a word base especially in inflection

Synonyms of ending

• end
• conclusion
• finale
• closing
• culmination
• close

Examples of ending in a Sentence

I didn't like the book's ending.

Common verb endings in English are “-s,” “-ed,” and “-ing.”

You can often recognize an English adverb by its “-ly” ending.

Recent Examples on the Web

The bloody ending This is where the filmmakers took the most liberty with the source material. —Lauren Huff, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Dec. 2025

Her reign, which appears to be never-ending, does not allow for a new song to take over the coveted top spot. —Taylor Crumpton, Time, 19 Dec. 2025

There’s no happy ending for Hollanov without Skip. —Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 19 Dec. 2025

Actors and friends, including politicians and celebrities, have shared anecdotes about one of the last Hollywood greats and called the couple's deaths a tragic ending to a storybook life. —Josh Peter, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing ending

• nerve ending
• never-ending

Rhymes for ending

• bending
• blending
• fending
• lending
• mending
• pending
• rending
• sending
• spending
• tending
• trending
• vending

Kids Definition

ending

noun

end·​ing ˈen-diŋ 

: the final part : conclusion, end

a novel with a happy ending