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. 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. finally adv.
[ ME f. OF or f. L finalis f. finis end ]