Last Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/læst/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun or Adjective

Definition

Last: (plural, Last) 1. The final part of something that remains after everything else has been used up or removed. 2. The furthest or most distant point from a starting point or origin.

Examples

• The last piece of pizza was devoured by the late-night snacker.
• The last stop on the bus route is a mile from my house.

Synonyms

• Final
• Remnant
• Terminal

Antonyms

• First
• Beginning

Additional Information

Athing that has been used up or exhausted until nothing remains is said to be in its last state. For instance, “The last of the winter storm’s snow has melted” suggests that there is no more snow left. When describing a location, “the last mile” often means the furthest point from the starting point. Last can also be used to describe the final moment or phase of something, like “The last hour of the concert was the most energetic.”

The word Last has a rich history dating back to Old English. It is related to the words ‘læst’ and ‘læstan’ in Old English, which meant “remaining” or “left over”. Over time, the spelling and meaning have evolved, but its core idea of something remaining after everything else has been used up or removed has remained constant.

Etymology

Last derives from Old English ‘læst’, which was related to ‘læstan’, meaning “remaining” or “left over”.

Usage Notes

When describing a physical object, Last often means the final part that remains after everything else has been used up or removed. In spatial contexts, it can refer to the furthest point from a starting point or origin. When talking about an event or a phase, Last usually describes the final moment or concluding stage.

Cultural References

In popular culture, the phrase “Last but not least” is often used to stress that something or someone is particularly important, even if it’s not the first or primary item.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Last but not least
• Last resort
• Last ditch effort

Related Words or Phrases

• End
• Final
• Ultimate
• Remaining

Collocations

• Last but not least
• Last chance
• Last hope
• Last resort

Frequency of Use

The word Last is commonly used in everyday language to describe the final part of something or the furthest point from a starting point. It’s also used in idiomatic expressions and phrases that convey a sense of finality or urgency.

Common Misspellings

• Laist
• Laste
• Laest