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

At the latter, four local farmers show The Athletic water courses polluted with crude oil. —Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 27 May 2026

The spotlight grew too hot, however, and after the latter date Rollins dropped out of sight for nearly three years. —Chris Morris, Variety, 26 May 2026

The recurring event rallies many of the world’s remaining tall ships across uncertain seas—from Peru, the Netherlands, and even India (the latter's vessel is already en route). —Paige Darrah, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 May 2026

The former is being remade in the UK with Gary Lineker and Jack Whitehall is hosting an American version of the latter for Fox. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 26 May 2026

Rhymes for the latter

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