last word, the

1. The final statement in a verbal argument, as in Karen is never satisfied unless she has the last word . [Late 1800s]

2. 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]

3. 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

“Just like Bud Light, Target and other establishment organizations that have laid anchor with extremists, the Dodgers—and Major League Baseball in general—found out that the elites do not have the last word. The people do. In the end, indecency and bigotry were defeated.”

Read more on Washington Times

“The judge had the last word. The community had the last word.”

Read more on New York Times

He added, “Their resilience, courage, and perseverance have ensured that terror will never have the last word. The justice, fairness, and humanity that this defendant received in the United States stand in stark contrast to the cruelty, inhumanity, and indiscriminate violence touted by the terrorist organization he espoused.”

Read more on Seattle Times

“For me it is enough to have the first and the last word, the middle we can discuss,” he said.

Read more on The Guardian

The sound of the last word, the way I draw out the vowel, makes me hear how much I wanted that.

Read more on Literature

Related Words

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• fever 
• furor 
• mania 
• passion 
• rage 
• trend