later

1 of 2

adverb

lat·​er ˈlā-tər How to pronounce later (audio)
: at some time subsequent to a given time : subsequently, afterward
one week later
they later regretted the decision
often used with on
experience that will be useful later on

-later

2 of 2

noun combining form

: worshipper
bibliolater

Examples of later in a Sentence

Adverb I'll talk to you again later. They later regretted the decision. She returned several weeks later. I saw him again later that morning.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adverb
In 2019, former UAW President Gary Jones was accused — and later convicted — of plotting to steal up to $1.5 million in union dues, was likely to be ousted via Article 30, though Jones resigned before the process was completed. Liam Rappleye, Freep.com, 22 July 2025 He was jailed and later released on bond, and is on administrative leave pending additional review by the chief. Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 22 July 2025 Server would later address Stooges fans who asked about Larry's descendants. Angela Andaloro, People.com, 21 July 2025 He was later awarded a scholarship by Uta Hagen to attend classes at the Herbert Berghof Studio, where his fellow students included Geraldine Page, Jason Robards, Sandy Dennis, and Lee Grant. Emlyn Travis, EW.com, 21 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for later

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

see late entry 1

Noun combining form

French -latre, from Late Latin -latres, from Greek -latrēs; akin to Greek latron pay

First Known Use

Adverb

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of later was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Later.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/later. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

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