last word
Americannoun
-
the closing remark or comment, as in an argument.
By the rules of debate she would have the last word.
-
a final or definitive work, statement, etc..
This report is the last word on the treatment of arthritis.
-
the latest, most modern thing.
Casual hairdos are the last word this season.
Etymology
Origin of last word
First recorded in 1880–85
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mr. Robbins writes with an almost proprietorial love for Zurbarán and hence should get the last word.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026
As the June 2 primary nears, the candidates are likely to be more active than ever on social media, in targeted ads and on broadcast television, each hoping to get in the last word.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 13, 2026
Live Nation responded to the ruling in a statement that said, “The jury’s verdict is not the last word on this matter. Pending motions will determine whether the liability and damages rulings stand.”
From Barron's ● May 5, 2026
"It sounds sentimental, but he said: 'dad had the last word'."
From BBC ● Apr. 4, 2026
His voice was rough, and dropped almost to nothing on the last word.
From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
