Finally means after a long wait or after many attempts. When you've been working on a difficult puzzle for an hour and you finally fit that last piece into place, you feel relief and satisfaction. When your family finally arrives at your vacation destination after hours in the car, everyone's ready to stretch their legs and explore.

The word captures that sense of “at last” or “in the end.” A scientist might finally discover the answer to a problem after years of research. A basketball player might finally make the winning shot after missing several attempts. You might finally understand a tricky math concept after your teacher explains it three different ways.

Finally also means the last point in a series, like when you're listing reasons: “First, we need to clean up. Second, we should set the table. And finally, we'll call everyone to dinner.” In this use, it signals you've reached the end of your list.

The word often carries a feeling of triumph or relief because whatever you were waiting for or working toward has happened. When something happens finally, the waiting or struggling is over.