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

… arbitration is intended and expected to provide finality in the settlement of a dispute.

—Matthew A. Kelly

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

Look the other person in the eye and give your voice a downward inflection at the end of your suggestion, indicating finality. — John Richardson attia Qureshi, CNBC, 22 May 2026

Matching justice and the system’s goal of finality is challenging in an era of evolving technology. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 8 May 2026

But matching justice — and its goal of finality — to evolving technology is challenging. — Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2026

Rashford returning to United still seems remote, given his earnings and the finality of his previous departures. — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 29 May 2026

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

Rhymes for finality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• duality
• fatality
• formality
• frugality
• legality
• lethality

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