penultimate Definition
- 1second to the last in a series
- 2next to the last
Using penultimate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "penultimate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The penultimate chapter of the book is the most exciting.
Example
The penultimate episode of the series was a cliffhanger.
Example
The penultimate runner in the relay race handed off the baton to the anchor leg.
Example
The penultimate round of the tournament will determine who advances to the finals.
penultimate Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for penultimate
- preantepenultimate
- second-to-last
- next-to-last
Phrases with penultimate
penultimate straw
the last in a series of irritating or frustrating events that leads one to lose patience or hope
Example
The traffic jam was the penultimate straw that made him decide to quit his job and move to the countryside.
the second to last year of a course of study, typically in a university or college
Example
She is in her penultimate year of medical school and will soon start her residency.
the second to last game in a sports tournament or league
Example
The penultimate match of the season will determine which team makes it to the playoffs.
Origins of penultimate
from Latin 'paene ultimus', meaning 'almost last'
Summary: penultimate in Brief
The term 'penultimate' [pɪˈnʌltɪmət] refers to the second to last item in a series. It can be used to describe chapters, episodes, runners in a relay race, or rounds in a tournament. The phrase 'penultimate straw' describes the last in a series of frustrating events that leads to losing patience or hope.
