# finalizer

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/finalizer
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a person or thing that finishes a task or puts the last parts of a plan together. In computer programming, it is a special instruction that cleans up memory when an object is no longer needed.

For teachers: an agent or entity that brings a process to its conclusion. In object-oriented programming, it refers to a method invoked by the garbage collector to perform cleanup operations before an object is destroyed.

## Examples

- The committee appointed him as the finalizer for the new contract.
- The lead architect acted as the finalizer, reviewing every small detail before the blueprints were sent to the construction team.
- In Java, the use of a finalizer is generally discouraged in favor of try-with-resources, as there is no guarantee regarding the exact timing of its execution by the virtual machine.

## Usage notes

- In technical contexts, it often refers specifically to memory management methods in software development.

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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.