ending

noun

end·​ing ˈen-diŋ How to pronounce ending (audio)
: 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

Examples of ending in a Sentence

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.
Trudi Roth, a protester who stood outside Kimmel’s Hollywood Boulevard theater, said the compound effect of Colbert ending and now Kimmel under pressure is a warning about how Trump’s movement wants to reshape the mainstream media. Dan Doperalski, Variety, 19 Sep. 2025 Because sometimes a happy ending doesn't require a wedding. Sydney Bucksbaum, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Sep. 2025 The big lingering question this season was who Belly would end up with and whether the ending of the books would be changed. Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 18 Sep. 2025 Sure, she’s getting married to his younger brother, but Conrad can’t help but carry a torch for his childhood friend turned high school love, no matter the odds of their story having a happy ending. Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ending

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Cite this Entry

“Ending.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ending. Accessed 22 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

ending

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

More from Merriam-Webster on ending

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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