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
The sling backpack has a roomy compartment and easy-to-reach zipper pocket — the latter is especially nice for keeping documents handy at the airport.
—
Clint Davis, People.com, 29 June 2025
Among the incumbent free agents from the Heat’s season-ending roster eligible to be signed elsewhere beginning on Monday are Alec Burks, Josh Christopher and Isaiah Stevens, with the latter two finishing last season on two-way deals.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 29 June 2025
Destroying all of Iran's nuclear sites won't be easy
Iran has several nuclear facilities underground, specifically south of Tehran in Natanz and Fordo, the latter of which is built deep inside a mountain.
—Kat Lonsdorf, NPR, 17 June 2025
Other Economic Data Some developing data shows that information like growing credit use and consumer sentiments — the latter important because about 69% of GDP is consumer spending — may have been early warning signs.
—Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for the latter
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Clint Davis, People.com, 29 June 2025
Among the incumbent free agents from the Heat’s season-ending roster eligible to be signed elsewhere beginning on Monday are Alec Burks, Josh Christopher and Isaiah Stevens, with the latter two finishing last season on two-way deals.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 29 June 2025
Destroying all of Iran's nuclear sites won't be easy
Iran has several nuclear facilities underground, specifically south of Tehran in Natanz and Fordo, the latter of which is built deep inside a mountain.
—Kat Lonsdorf, NPR, 17 June 2025
Other Economic Data Some developing data shows that information like growing credit use and consumer sentiments — the latter important because about 69% of GDP is consumer spending — may have been early warning signs.
—Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for the latter
Cite this Entry
“The latter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20latter. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.
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