finder

noun

find·​er ˈfīn-dər How to pronounce finder (audio)
1
: one that finds
2
: a small astronomical telescope of low power and wide field attached to a larger telescope for finding an object
3
: viewfinder

Examples of finder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The original finders prospered, with George, Jim, and Charlie making about $1 million in gold, while word of their discovery spread. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 Aug. 2026 Unlike a traditional benefits finder, the startup positions itself as a consumer advocacy company, and that distinction defines its business. — Victor Dey, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 The other, the Resilience lander, built by the Japanese company ispace, wasn’t so fortunate, crash-landing on the moon on June 5, 2025, after its laser range-finder failed. — Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 4 Aug. 2026 Since 2012, Fanzo has worked with brands and rights holders including Guinness, UEFA and World Rugby—most recently partnering with Michelob Ultra to power the official FIFA World Cup venue finder. — Leo MacLehose, Sportico.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for finder

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of finder was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing finder

Rhymes for finder

See All Rhymes for finder

Browse Nearby Words

find a way into/to someone's heart
finder
finder's fee
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Finder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/finder. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

finder

noun
find·​er ˈfīn-dər How to pronounce finder (audio)
: one that finds: as
a
: a small telescope attached to a larger one for finding an object
b
: a device on a camera that shows the view being photographed by the camera

Legal Definition

finder

noun
find·​er
1
: one that finds
the finder of lost property has a right to it as against the world, except against the true owner—McDonald v. Railway Express Agency, 81 S.E.2d 525 (1954)
2
: one that for a fee discovers a financial opportunity, passes it on to another, and may act as a go-between for but does not participate in subsequent negotiations between the involved parties compare broker

More from Merriam-Webster on finder

Nglish: Translation of finder for Spanish Speakers

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