the latter

noun

1
: the second one of two things or people that have been mentioned
Of these two options, the former is less expensive, while the latter is less risky.
2
: the last thing or person mentioned
Of chicken, fish, and meat, I like the latter best.
3
: the thing or person that has just been mentioned
The President—or, if the latter is too busy, the Vice President—will see you shortly.

Examples of the latter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Two-time losing finalist Ons Jabeur, now the No. 10 seed, will likely be in the latter stages once again, while 2022 champion Elena Rybakina has battled through illness this year to pick up three WTA titles but had to withdraw from the German Open with abdominal pain last week. Matias Grez, CNN, 30 June 2024 Sjogren's syndrome: People with this disorder have dry eyes and a dry mouth, the latter of which can cause trouble swallowing. Sunny Sea Gold, Health, 29 June 2024 The performance marked the first time that Swift has played the latter tune on the guitar. Nicholas Rice, Peoplemag, 29 June 2024 Entertainment Weekly has confirmed that the two will be heading to the City of Angels for a two-episode crossover on the latter show in August. Lauren Huff, EW.com, 28 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for the latter 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'the latter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Dictionary Entries Near the latter

Cite this Entry

“The latter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20latter. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

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