Latter

Definition

Referring to the second of two things or people mentioned.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlætər/
• Respelling: LAT-er (with "LAT" as in "cat" and "er" as in "her")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlætə/
• Respelling: LAT-uh (with "LAT" as in "cat" and "uh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "latter" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "LAT." The American pronunciation includes a pronounced "er" sound, while the British pronunciation has a softer "uh" sound.

Etymology

Derived from Old Norse lǽtari meaning "slower", from the adjective lǽt meaning "late". Over time, its usage evolved to reference the latter part or second of two items.

Derivatives

• Latterly
• Latter-day
• Lattermost
• Lateness
• Later

Synonyms

• Second
• Last
• Final

Antonyms

• Former
• First
• Initial

Usage

Latter is commonly used to refer to the second of two items mentioned or to indicate the final stages of a process or period of time.

Related Terms

• Former: Refers to the first of two things mentioned.
• Last: Refers to something coming after all others in time or order.
• End: The final part of something.

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Latter (Adjective): Denoting the second or second mentioned of two people or things.
  • Example: "Of the two options, I prefer the latter."

• Latter (Adjective): Occurring or situated nearer to the end of something than to the beginning.
  • Example: "The latter part of the 20th century saw significant technological advancements."