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.
The post recounts their last moments and last words (his wife is referred to as the Fomu, Holy Mother the Great Mahasattva) in a nearly 5,000-word account. Joseph Bien-Kahn, Rolling Stone, 3 Nov. 2024 And if there were any lingering doubts about that, her last words solidify her power. Erin Qualey, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2024 In colonial New England, pamphlets on murders were handed out, featuring recaps of crimes and trials, plus any last words criminals uttered before they were killed. Olivia B. Waxman, TIME, 11 Sep. 2024 Rather than beginning the obituary with a description of Robert as a loving husband or great father, Charles speculated what his dad’s last words might have been. David Chiu, People.com, 18 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near last word

Cite this Entry

“Last word.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/last%20word. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

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!