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

• 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

That ending is the most important scene and is very much in direct contact with the overarching theme that penetrates all three seasons. —Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 8 July 2025

In addition, the Squid Game Season 3 ending certainly seems to allude to the format going international. —Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025

With Sebastian’s betrayal going unresolved, the heartbroken Antonio joins the vengeful Malvolio in adding a bitter note to the play’s happy ending. —Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 6 July 2025

The beginning is somewhat known, and the ending is clear. —Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 5 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 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