end
ehnd
End (noun) means the final point of something in space or time. Example: “We reached the end of the road just as the sun set.”
noun
1
The final point of something in space or time.
"We reached the end of the road just as the sun set."
"The meeting dragged on until the end of the day."
"There is a small cafe at the far end of the street."
2
A purpose or goal that something is aimed at.
"The new rules were introduced to a good end: safer streets."
"The charity's end is to give every child a chance to read."
"To that end, we have added more bus services to the village."
verb
1
To reach a conclusion, or to bring something to a conclusion.
"The film ends with a twist nobody expects."
"They decided to end the partnership after years of disagreements."
"The meeting ended earlier than anyone had expected, so we all went home."
How to use end
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe point where something finishes, or to bring something to a finish.
Common pairings
end of the day
come to an end
end a relationship
means to an end
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Word forms
- Plural
- ends
- Third person singular
- ends
- Past tense
- ended
Fill the gap
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We reached the _____ of the road just as the sun set.
Etymology
From Old English ende, related to German Ende and Dutch einde, all going back to a very old root meaning "front" or "forehead" — the same root behind "anti-."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for end
See all rhymes for end →Frequently asked questions
What does “end” mean?
The word “end” means the final point of something in space or time. In plain terms, the point where something finishes, or to bring something to a finish.
How do you pronounce “end”?
“End” is pronounced ehnd (/ɛnd/ in IPA).
How do you use “end” in a sentence?
Here is “end” used in a sentence: “We reached the end of the road just as the sun set.”
What is another word for “end”?
Words with a similar meaning to “end” include absolve, complete, conclude, consummate, discontinue and do.
What is the opposite of “end”?
The opposite of “end” — its antonyms — are beginning, start, begin, commence and execute.
What part of speech is “end”?
Depending on how it is used, “end” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “end” come from?
The word “end” comes from Old English. From Old English ende, related to German Ende and Dutch einde, all going back to a very old root meaning "front" or "forehead" — the same root behind "anti-.".
Is “end” a common word?
“End” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the opposite of 'end'?
The usual opposite is "beginning" or "start," the first point rather than the last. "Origin," "outset," and "commencement" work in more formal contexts. When "end" means to finish an action, its opposites are verbs like "begin," "start," or "open." Which one fits depends on whether you mean place, time, or action.
What is the difference between 'end' and 'finish'?
The two overlap, but "end" is often the point or edge where something stops, while "finish" stresses completing something fully. A race can end because time runs out, but you finish it by crossing the line. "End" can be sudden or abrupt; "finish" usually implies reaching a proper, intended conclusion.
What are the different meanings of 'end'?
"End" can mean the final point in time ("the end of the day"), the physical tip or edge of an object ("the end of the rope"), or a goal or purpose ("to what end?"). It can also describe a share or role, as in "your end of the deal." Context shows which is meant.
Example sentences
Real-world examples showing end in context, drawn from published sources. Any opinions expressed are those of the original source and do not reflect the views of FreeDict.com.
"Cheers" came to an end after 11 seasons, when Danson expressed his desire to pursue other acting opportunities, with executives deciding the show should not go on without him.
From
Fox News · Jul 25, 2026
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