finalist

[fahyn-l-ist]

noun

1. a person entitled to participate in the final or decisive contest in a series, as in musical or athletic competition.

finalist

/ ˈfaɪnəlɪst /

noun

1. a contestant who has reached the last and decisive stage of a sports or other competition

Word History and Origins

Origin of finalist¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; final + -ist

Example Sentences

This year's list of finalists range from a Caribbean country to small start-up businesses.

From BBC

Its introduction comes amid reports, external that between 50 and 60 athletes who went through male puberty have been finalists in the female category at global and continental track and field championships since 2000.

From BBC

But for nearly an hour at Ashton Gate on Saturday, the identity of the second finalist was very much in doubt.

From BBC

The move comes amid reports, external that between 50 and 60 athletes who went through male puberty have been finalists in the female category at global and continental athletics championships since 2000.

From BBC

Her search came down to two finalists, and ultimately Lares reminded her more closely of who she was at that age.

From Los Angeles Times