last word

noun

1
: the final remark in a verbal exchange
2
a
: the power of final decision
b
: a definitive statement or treatment
this study will surely be the last word on the subject for many years
3
: the most advanced, up-to-date, or fashionable exemplar of its kind
the last word in sports cars

Examples of last word in a Sentence

a swimsuit that is the last word in sportswear this season
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Famous last words from a woman who then has a stone slingshotted through her eye and out the back of her head by a lawnmower. Gayle Sequeira, Vulture, 16 May 2025 The serial killer was convicted of murdering at least 33 teen boys and young men in the 1970s His last words after sitting on death row for 14 years became infamous John Wayne Gacy, a.k.a. Jordana Comiter, People.com, 10 May 2025 The Oracle of Omaha is giving his last words of wisdom. Medora Lee, USA Today, 6 May 2025 Listen to this article Pope Francis died content and grateful after a busy day tending to his beloved flock, the Vatican said Tuesday in an account of the pontiff’s final hours and last words. Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for last word

Word History

First Known Use

1509, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of last word was in 1509

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Last word.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/last%20word. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

last word

noun
1
: the final remark in a discussion
2
: the power of final decision
3
: the most modern or fashionable one of its kind
the last word in sportswear
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!