Etymology Map
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Final

3 stages from Late Latin to English.

Today it means coming at the end

Where does the word "final" come from? It comes from Late Latin finalis, passing through Old French before entering English (1300s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
finalis
Late Latin · ancient
"of the end"
from 'finis', end
2
Stage 2 of 3
final
Old French · medieval
"final"
reached English in the early 1300s; the sporting sense 'final contest' dates from 1880
3
Stage 3 of 3
final
English · 1300s
"last"
sports 'finals' date from the 1800s
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Read the full story

Final’s story begins in Late Latin: finalis meant “of the end.” From 'finis', end. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as final. Reached English in the early 1300s; the sporting sense 'final contest' dates from 1880. It reached English by 1300s as final. Sports 'finals' date from the 1800s. Today, final means coming at the end.