finding

American  

[fahyn-ding] / ˈfaɪn dɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that finds; discovery.

2. Often findings. something that is found found or ascertained.

3. Law. a decision or verdict after judicial inquiry.

4. findings, tools, materials, etc., used by artisans.

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finding British  

/ ˈfaɪndɪŋ /

noun

1. a thing that is found or discovered

2. law the conclusion reached after a judicial inquiry; verdict

3. (plural) the tools and equipment of an artisan

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Other Word Forms

• nonfinding noun

Etymology

Origin of finding

First recorded before 1000; Middle English, Old English; find + -ing ¹

Explanation

A finding is a discovery, especially by scholars or scientists. Finding is the act of researching or analyzing something. If the dog digs up the hamster grave in the backyard, better not to share his finding with the neighbors. Findings are facts that have been found, especially by academics studying something. A dietary study could have the finding that more people are avoiding gluten. An economic study could have the finding that more people are working out of their home. An environmental study could have the finding that a type of toxin is increasing. A dog’s finding would be a little less academic. The word is usually plural, because it usually refers to more than one thing found.

Example Sentences

Dad started thinking about leaving the village and finding work elsewhere.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

YA retellings had long captivated audiences, finding widespread success during the 2010s.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

Girls of all ages were quick to point out the benefits of finding like-minded people who might live far away, and of the solace that could offer.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

"By finding new biomarkers, we hope to contribute to more precise therapies," Catarina concludes.

From Science Daily • Apr. 12, 2026

I only recall how my family came to the rescue, talking, shaking hands, taking coats, finding chairs, so that I would not have to do or say anything.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

Related Words

• conclusion
• data
• decision
• discovery
• recommendation