closing

American  

[kloh-zing] / ˈkloʊ zɪŋ /

noun

1. the end or conclusion, as of a speech.

2. something that closes; a fastening, as of a purse.

3. the final phase of a transaction, especially the meeting at which procedures are carried out in the execution of a contract for the sale of real estate.

4. an act or instance of failing or going bankrupt.

   an increase in bank closings.

5. complimentary close.

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adjective

1. concluding; ending; final.

closing Cultural  

1. Usually applied to real estate transactions, it refers to delivery of the deed of ownership from the owner to the buyer in return for full payment.

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Other Word Forms

• half-closing adjective
• self-closing adjective

Etymology

Origin of closing

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; close, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

El Camino Real 2, Chatsworth 0: The Royals are closing in on the No. 1 seed for the City Section Open Division playoffs with a 7-0-1 mark in the West Valley League.

From Los Angeles Times

One user's comment on the Licola Caravan Park & General Store official Facebook page says: "People rely on the store in town, and closing in the middle of peak season is stupidity at its best."

From BBC

Shares were up a mere 1,500% at the closing level.

From Barron's

Here’s a sampling of the arts and entertainment spaces closing for the day, shuttering in solidarity or offering services in support.

From Los Angeles Times

He throws a quick look out the back door before closing it.

From Literature

Related Words

• closure
• completion
• conclusion
• termination