finish

Finish is a term with multiple related meanings in language, design, and manufacturing. As a verb, to finish means to bring something to an end, to complete a task or process, or to complete the final details of a project. As a noun, finish denotes the end result or the final touches applied to an object, as well as the surface condition or coating that determines its appearance and feel.

The word derives from the Old French finir, from Latin finis meaning end. The sense of completion appears in Middle English, while the use of finish to describe a surface treatment developed with advances in manufacturing and design.

In manufacturing and design, a finish refers to the surface treatment that affects appearance, texture, color, and durability. Common finish categories include high gloss, semi-gloss, satin, and matte. Finishes may consist of paint, varnish, lacquer, enamel, veneer, plating, anodizing, or powder coatings. The finishing process often includes preparation steps such as cleaning and sanding, followed by staining or sealing and the application of multiple coats. The choice of finish depends on aesthetic goals, environmental exposure, and required wear resistance.

Finish also appears in other contexts, notably in sports to describe the outcome of a competition or the act of crossing the finish line. In woodworking, finishing enhances the visual appeal and protects the material. The term is widely used in printing, textiles, furniture, and product manufacturing to indicate the final surface treatment or the completed state of a process.