photo finish

noun

1
: a race or finish in which contestants are so close that a photograph of them as they cross the finish line has to be examined to determine the winner
2
: a close contest

Examples of photo finish 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.
If your dad’s idea of a great day involves photo finishes and premium BBQ, Santa Anita Park has a full lineup of experiences to match—from trackside feasts to whiskey tastings. Charlie Vargas, Oc Register, 10 June 2025 From a drama standpoint, the 151st Kentucky Derby has a tough act to follow after last year’s three-way photo finish. Steve Kornacki, NBC news, 2 May 2025 The Lamar-Drake exchange wraps a photo finish between the two rivals, whose feud ignited into one of the defining pop-culture storylines of 2024. Trevor Anderson, Billboard, 27 May 2025 Long before Ross Chastain became the first driver in 54 years to win a Cup Series race from the tail of the field at the Coca-Cola 600, Shane Van Gisbergen captured the inaugural Chicago Street Race in his debut, and Daniel Suárez got the best of the infamous three-wide photo finish at Atlanta. Shane Connuck, Charlotte Observer, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for photo finish

Word History

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of photo finish was in 1935

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Cite this Entry

“Photo finish.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photo%20finish. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

photo finish

noun
1
: a finish of a race in which contestants are so close that a photograph of them crossing the finish line has to be examined to decide the winner
2
: a close contest (as in an election)

More from Merriam-Webster on photo finish

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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