have the final word

1. To express the final point or opinion in an argument or discussion, especially in a way that decisively or conclusively ends it. The whole meeting just descended into chaos as everyone tried to have the final word. David is so smug and always has to have the final word in every debate. Shouldn't the professor have the final word on this issue? She's the expert, after all.

2. To have the final authority to decide what happens or how something is done. As the editor-in-chief, I have the final word on the layout design for every issue. The department heads all contribute to creating the strategy, but it's ultimately the CEO who has the final word. If we disagree about what course of action to take, then who has the final word?