finalist

noun

fi·​nal·​ist ˈfī-nə-list 

: a contestant in a competition finals

Examples of finalist in a Sentence

They interviewed all of the finalists before making a decision.

a finalist in the tennis tournament

Recent Examples on the Web

At that point, the four finalists’ futures will truly be up in the Eire. — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 7 Nov. 2026

Of the more than 40 applicants, only the three finalists went before the full board. — Arkansas Online, 6 Nov. 2026

Something is just off, with a lack of movement on both ends by the veteran, who just a year ago was a finalist in Denver for Sixth Man of the Year. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2026

Guests were able to view a presentation-style showcase featuring the collections from the 2026 Supima Design Competition finalists, as well as emerging designers from the Festival d’Hyères and a select group of leading international designers. — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 6 Nov. 2026

Word History

Etymology

final entry 1 + -ist entry 1

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

finalist

noun

fi·​nal·​ist ˈfīn-ᵊl-əst 

: a contestant in the finals of a competition