finalist

noun

fi·​nal·​ist ˈfī-nə-list 

: a contestant in a competition finals

Examples of finalist in a Sentence

They interviewed all of the finalists before making a decision.

a finalist in the tennis tournament

Recent Examples on the Web

Michigan, California and Loyola Marymount were also finalists for the twins who were coached last season by Justin Siegel, a new assistant coach at Loyola Marymount. — Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026

Yesterday, the Cercador Prize, which recognizes works of literature in translation, selected by independent booksellers across the US, announced its 2026 finalists. — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 Oct. 2026

This year’s finalists represent some of the most influential voices and organizations in podcasting, spanning news, entertainment, business, sports and culture. — Ajc Communications, AJC.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Folk was chosen out of 11 finalists for the recognition and will now compete for the regional title. — Charlotte Observer, 1 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

final entry 1 + -ist entry 1

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

finalist

noun

fi·​nal·​ist ˈfīn-ᵊl-əst 

: a contestant in the finals of a competition