last word, the
Idioms-
The final statement in a verbal argument, as in Karen is never satisfied unless she has the last word . [Late 1800s]
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A conclusive or authoritative statement or treatment; also, the power or authority of ultimate decision. For example, This report is considered to be the last word on genetic counseling , or In financial matters, the treasurer has the last word . [Late 1800s]
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The latest thing; the newest, most fashionable of its kind. For example, Our food processor is the last word in kitchen gadgetry . [c. 1930]
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.
While helpful, those numbers are not the last word, the spokesperson noted.
From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026
“For me it is enough to have the first and the last word, the middle we can discuss,” he said.
From The Guardian • Jun. 26, 2020
But even up to the last word the writer has choices and can throw in a curveball.
From The Guardian • Sep. 21, 2018
Jefferson had the last word; the policy remained in effect until he left office, in 1809.
From The New Yorker • Feb. 9, 2017
The sound of the last word, the way I draw out the vowel, makes me hear how much I wanted that.
From "Shouting at the Rain" by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
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.
