1. plural of finite; things that are limited, bounded, or not infinite
Usage: primarily used in philosophy, mathematics, and linguistics
2. finite verb forms, as opposed to infinitives or participles
Usage: grammar and linguistics term

Examples

• In mathematics, we distinguish between finites and infinites.
• The philosopher argued that all human knowledge concerns finites, not absolutes.
• In the sentence 'She runs,' the verb 'runs' is one of the finites.
• Linguists classify verbs as either finites or non-finites based on their form.
• The grammar lesson covered how finites differ from gerunds and infinitives.