# have the last laugh

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/have-the-last-laugh
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be vindicated; to triumph despite predicted failure; to find success after defeat or setback.

## Examples

- They doubted me, but I had the last laugh.
- After everyone said his business would fail, he had the last laugh when it became a huge success.
- Though his rivals mocked his unconventional methods for years, he ultimately had the last laugh when his discovery changed the entire industry.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.