the last word

the last word

1. The final words in an argument or discussion, especially one that decisively or conclusively ends it. Everyone started shouting, trying to get in the last word, and the whole meeting just descended into chaos.

2. The most recent, modern, or advanced version of something. Typically followed by "in (something)." It may not look like much, but I can assure you that this machine is the last word in neural imaging.

3. The final authority to decide what happens or how something is done. The department heads all contribute to creating the strategy, but it's ultimately the CEO who has the last word. We always give our editor-in-chief the last word on controversial topics like this.

See also: last, word

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

*last word

 and *final word; *final say

Fig. the final point (in an argument); the final decision (in some matter). (*Typically: get ~; have ~; give some one ~.) The boss gets the last word in hiring. Why do you always have to have the final word in an argument?

See also: last, word

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

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]

See also: last

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

the last word

or

the final word

COMMON If someone has the last word or the final word in a discussion or argument, they are the one who wins it or who makes the final decision. She does like to have the last word in any discussion. The final word will come from the Secretary of State.

See also: last, word

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

the ˌlast ˈword (in something)

the most recent, most fashionable, etc. of its type: They say that this new car is the last word in luxury. ♢ This is the last word in computer technology.

See also: last, word

your/the last/final ˈword (on/about something)

your, etc. final decision or statement about something: ‘Will you take £900?’ ‘No, £1 000 and that’s my last word.’ ♢ Is that your final word on the matter?

See also: final, last, word

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017