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

Our old pal Josh McDaniels had been Jones’ personal QB whisperer during the latter’s rookie season in 2021. — Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 10 July 2026

The former provides a realistic flame effect, while the latter offers an attractive modern style. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 July 2026

Bowen was a founding member of Disney’s streaming leadership team, helping to launch and scale Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu, with the latter recently coming under Disney’s full control. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 9 July 2026

Burnham set out to fix the former, and immerse himself in the latter. — Lauren Frayer, NPR, 9 July 2026

Rhymes for the latter

• backscatter
• antimatter
• atter
• batter
• blatter
• catarrh
• chatter
• clatter
• fatter
• flatter
• hatter
• matter