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

However, 2011’s Time of My Life was the band’s final LP with Arnold alongside original members Roberts and Harrell; with the former leaving for health reasons while the latter was fired from the group after the bassist was charged with vehicular manslaughter in 2013. —Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 7 Feb. 2026

Another surprise came from Remo Ruffini, chairman and chief executive officer of Moncler, who for the first time personally designed the look for the bearers of the placards, the latter looking like giant ice cubes. —Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 7 Feb. 2026

Crystal Mountain and Nub's Nob are two popular options for families thanks to their beginner-friendly terrain—the latter offers free lift tickets for children under eight. —Katy Spratte Joyce, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026

This recipe stands firmly in the latter. —Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Feb. 2026

Rhymes for the latter

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