bring up the rear

phrase

: to come last or behind

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of bring up the rear was in 1613

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Style

“Bring up the rear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bring%20up%20the%20rear. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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bring up the rear

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