have the final word

have the final word

1. To say the final words in an argument or discussion, especially ones that decisively or conclusively end it. The whole meeting just descended into chaos as everyone tried to have the final word. David is so smug and always has to have the final word in every debate.
2. To have the authority to decide how something ultimately happens or is done. As the editor in chief, I have the final word on the layout design for every issue.
See also: final, have, word
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • have the final say
  • have the last say
  • the final say
  • the final word
  • your/the last/final word
  • get in the last word
  • last word, to have the
  • have the last word
  • last word, the
  • the last word
References in periodicals archive
However, because Dorcas exists in this relation relative to Rufel's representative whimsy, she cannot have the final word. In much the same way as Rufel is able to appoint her slave's birthdate, she is also able to reconstruct her slave's voice.
Reading Mammy: the subject of relation in Sherley Anne Williams' 'Dessa Rose.' (Women's Culture Issue)