ending
Ending (noun) means the final part of a story, event, or period of time. Example: “The film has a surprising ending.”
How to use ending
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe last part of something, or (in grammar) a suffix attached to a word.
Word forms
endings plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The film has a surprising _____.
Etymology
From Old English endung, formed from end plus -ing.
Related words
Rhymes for ending
Frequently asked questions
What does “ending” mean?
The word “ending” means the final part of a story, event, or period of time. In plain terms, the last part of something, or (in grammar) a suffix attached to a word.
How do you pronounce “ending”?
“Ending” is pronounced EHN-dihng (/ˈɛndɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ending” in a sentence?
Here is “ending” used in a sentence: “The film has a surprising ending.”
What is another word for “ending”?
Words with a similar meaning to “ending” include termination and suffix.
What part of speech is “ending”?
“Ending” is a noun.
Where does the word “ending” come from?
The word “ending” comes from Old English. From Old English endung, formed from end plus -ing.
Is “ending” a common word?
“Ending” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “ending” have?
“Ending” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the final part of a story, event, or period of time.
What is the difference between an ending and a conclusion?
An ending is simply the final part of a story, event, or period — where it stops. A conclusion carries an added sense of resolution or reasoning: things are wrapped up, or a judgment is reached. Stories have endings; essays and arguments have conclusions. An ending can be abrupt, but a conclusion implies closure.
What are the different types of story endings?
Storytellers use several kinds of endings. A happy ending resolves things well; a tragic ending closes on loss. A twist ending surprises the audience, while a cliffhanger leaves the outcome open. Ambiguous endings invite interpretation, and a resolved or "closed" ending ties up every loose thread. The choice shapes how a story feels.
What is the opposite of an ending?
The clearest opposite is the beginning — the point where a story or event starts rather than stops. Depending on context, "start," "opening," or "introduction" work too. A book's ending mirrors its opening chapter; a period's end contrasts with its beginning. The two mark the boundaries of anything that unfolds over time.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include ending: