finding

noun

find·​ing ˈfīn-diŋ 

1

a

: the act of one that finds

b

: find sense 2

2

findings plural : small tools and supplies used by an artisan (such as a dressmaker, jeweler, or shoemaker)

3

a

: the result of a judicial examination or inquiry especially into matters of fact

b

: the results of an investigation

—usually used in plural

Synonyms of finding

• ruling
• sentence
• holding

Examples of finding in a Sentence

She published her findings in a medical journal.

The evidence supported a finding of unfair bias.

Recent Examples on the Web

On the other side, De la Espriella has promised to fiercely crack down on criminal groups and build 10 megaprisons, following in a similar vein as El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, in his war on gangs, which has been beset by abuses, according to findings by human rights groups. —Megan Janetsky, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026

Using modern dating techniques, a joint team of scientists and academics from China, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Wales analyzed pigment samples in a laboratory and compared the findings with observations made at the cave. —Elmira Aliieva, NBC news, 1 June 2026

Samson’s findings reveal how human sleep patterns became shorter, deeper and more flexible than those of our more ape-like ancestors, freeing time to spend on toolmaking, social interactions and migration around the world. —Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 1 June 2026

Researchers say the findings could represent a major shift in the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer if the drug receives FDA approval. —ABC News, 1 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for finding

• binding
• blinding
• grinding
• minding
• winding
• bookbinding
• factfinding
• nonbinding
• rebinding
• regrinding
• reminding
• rewinding

Kids Definition

finding

noun

find·​ing

ˈfīn-diŋ

1

: find entry 2

2

: the result of a judicial proceeding or inquiry

Legal Definition

finding

noun

find·​ing

: a determination resulting from judicial or administrative examination or inquiry (as at trial) especially into matters of fact as embodied in the verdict of a jury or decision of a court, referee, or administrative body or officer

also, usually plural : a written statement of such determinations see also factfinding compare decision, holding, opinion, ruling

— finding of fact

: a determination made by the trier of fact as to a factual issue based on the evidence presented in a case

Note: Conclusions of law are based on findings of fact.

— finding of law

: a court's determination of the law as applied to a case : conclusion of law

— general finding

: a finding that the facts in general support a judgment in favor of one of the parties

— special finding

: a finding setting out the ultimate facts upon which the court's judgment is based