ending

1 of 2

noun

end·​ing ˈen-diŋ How to pronounce ending (audio)
Synonyms of endingnext
: something that constitutes an end: such as
a
: conclusion
a movie with a happy ending
b
: one or more letters or syllables added to a word base especially in inflection

ending

2 of 2

present participle of end entry 2, end entry 4

Synonyms of ending

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Noun

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Examples of ending in a Sentence

Noun I didn't like the book's ending. Common verb endings in English are “-s,” “-ed,” and “-ing.” You can often recognize an English adverb by its “-ly” ending.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
But the rollicking jollity that accompanies the final two acts, which includes the entrance of pirates and the abduction of Marina to a brothel, robs the ending of some of its pathos. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 5 Sep. 2026 In a really powerful way that reminded me of the ending of BlacKkKlansman, your film’s closing montage connects the era that you guys are focused on in the film all the way through to the present. — Scott Feinberg, HollywoodReporter, 5 Sep. 2026 Troy Parrott scored the game’s only goal nine minutes from time, with Kylian Mbappe seeing a late penalty saved in a dramatic ending at Estadio de La Cartuja. — Mario Cortegana, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 Redford and Newman build on their Sundance Kid chemistry to create a jovial, immersive crime epic with a surprisingly feel-good ending. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ending

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ending was in the 12th century

Phrases Containing ending

Rhymes for ending

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Browse Nearby Words

Endicott Mountains
ending
end in (something)
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Cite this Entry

“Ending.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ending. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ending

noun
end·​ing ˈen-diŋ How to pronounce ending (audio)
: the final part : conclusion, end
a novel with a happy ending
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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