adj. & n.
--adj.
1. situated at the end, coming last.
2 conclusive, decisive, unalterable, putting an end to doubt.
3 concerned with the purpose or end aimed at.
--n.
1. the last or deciding heat or game in sports or in a competition (Cup Final).
2 the edition of a newspaper published latest in the day.
3 (usu. in pl.) the series of examinations at the end of a degree course.
4 Mus. the principal note in any mode.
Phrases and idioms:
final cause Philos. the end towards which a thing naturally develops or at which an action aims. final clause Gram. a clause expressing purpose, introduced by in order that, lest, etc. final drive the last part of the transmission system in a motor vehicle. final solution the Nazi policy (1941-5) of exterminating European Jews.
Derivatives:
finally adv.
Etymology: ME f. OF or f. L finalis f. finis end