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

The findings are based on a survey of 161 CFOs and other finance professionals, with 77% at companies with up to 4,999 employees, 18% at companies with 5,000–19,999 employees, and 7% with 20,000 or more employees. —Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 27 Apr. 2026

The 2009 endangerment finding, a key regulatory practice that has been in place for nearly 20 years, helps regulate green emissions standards for motor vehicles and engines. —Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 27 Apr. 2026

The findings suggest that current screening strategies may need to be reevaluated, according to Pathiyil. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026

Ollila’s findings were described in two research papers, which can be read here and here. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 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