fi·nal·ize
ˈfī-nə-ˌlīz
finalized; finalizing
1
: to put in final or finished form
Soon my conclusion will be finalized.—Dwight D. Eisenhower
2
: to give final approval to
The proposed regulations have not been finalized by the … administration.—Mike Duncan
Usage of Finalize
Finalize was formerly castigated as an unnecessary neologism or as U.S. government jargon, but it is now broadly accepted. It appears to have first gained currency in Australia (where it has been acceptable all along) in the early 1920s. The U.S. Navy picked it up in the late 20s, and from there it came into widespread use. It is a standard formation (see -ize).
fi·nal·iza·tion
ˌfīnᵊlə̇ˈzāshən
-ᵊlˌīˈz-
plural -s
: the act, process, or an instance of finalizing
the finalization of a sound doctrine set forth in service manuals for use and guidance in future maneuvers—Kalman Siegel
Cite this Entry
“Finalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/finalize. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026.
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