Abstract: A composition for short cut, synthetic polymeric staple fibers that are used in a wet lay application for the production of nonwovens is disclosed and claimed herein along with a fiber having the finish thereon and the process for dispersing the fiber in an aqueous medium. Synthetic polymeric filaments are cut into staple lengths, generally in a range of from about 1/4 to about 3 inches in length, and are dispersed in an aqueous medium in conjunction with a composition that includes as an essential ingredient, an ethoxylated primary emulsifier that contains at least five moles of ethylene oxide, and exhibits a surface tension of at least 30 dynes per centimeter in a 0.10 weight percent aqueous solution at 25 degrees Centigrade plus or minus 2 degrees Centigrade. Optionally, a lubricant may be added to the finish composition to improve processability of the fiber during manufacture. The lubricant should be compatible with the primary emulsifier.