finder

noun

find·​er ˈfīn-dər How to pronounce finder (audio)
1
: one that finds
2
: a small astronomical telescope of low power and wide field attached to a larger telescope for finding an object
3

Examples of finder in a Sentence

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.
And in the case of portable distance finders, there’s plenty to choose from. Scott Kramer, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025 The duplicate finder scan located just a handful of duplicates, mostly photos. PCMAG, 24 Feb. 2025 This eliminates the need to carry multiple clubs and a distance finder to calculate the next shot. Edgar Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 7 Feb. 2025 For those having trouble deciding, this core pursuit finder might help. Wes Moss, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for finder

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of finder was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Finder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/finder. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

finder

noun
find·​er ˈfīn-dər How to pronounce finder (audio)
: one that finds: as
a
: a small telescope attached to a larger one for finding an object
b
: a device on a camera that shows the view being photographed by the camera

Legal Definition

finder

noun
find·​er
1
: one that finds
the finder of lost property has a right to it as against the world, except against the true ownerMcDonald v. Railway Express Agency, 81 S.E.2d 525 (1954)
2
: one that for a fee discovers a financial opportunity, passes it on to another, and may act as a go-between for but does not participate in subsequent negotiations between the involved parties compare broker

More from Merriam-Webster on finder

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!