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Synonyms

last word

American  

noun

  1. the closing remark or comment, as in an argument.

    By the rules of debate she would have the last word.

  2. a final or definitive work, statement, etc..

    This report is the last word on the treatment of arthritis.

  3. 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.

See Examples For:

Pascal Gross: The German delivered an excellent cross to create Yalcouye's first opportunity of the game, and had the last word with his late goal.

From BBC Aug. 30, 2026

If you’re a seasoned people-mover rider, luxury is probably the last word you’d ascribe to the vehicle another mid-century promo video called a “monster on wheels.”

From Slate Aug. 18, 2026

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

Weijia Jiang, president of the White House Correspondents Association which organizes the dinner, said in June as she announced the re-do that "we will not allow an act of violence to have the last word."

From Barron's Jul. 24, 2026

The last word was uttered in a roar so thunderous that Ranofer stopped in his tracks, wondering confusedly if it were some order he was supposed to understand and obey.

From "The Golden Goblet" by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

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