coming after all others in time or order; final, most recent in time; latest, endure or continue in time or a process, the final item in a list, series, or sequence

to breathe one's last, to have the last laugh, to save the best for last

at last, last but not least, last straw

Formal and Informal Expressions of last

In different contexts, you can replace 'last' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'final, ultimate, concluding' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'latest, greatest, end-all-be-all' is a commonplace synonym.

last: Explore its Definition & Usage

last Definition

1coming after all others in time or order; final
2most recent in time; latest
3endure or continue in time or a process
4the final item in a list, series, or sequence

Using last: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "last" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
This is the last chance to buy tickets.
Example
I saw him last night at the party.
Example
The meeting lasted for two hours.
Example
The last item on the list is the most important.

last Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for last

Antonyms for last

Idioms Using last

to breathe one's last
to die
Example
He breathed his last in the hospital.
to have the last laugh
to ultimately succeed or be vindicated in a situation where one was previously thought to be unlikely to do so
Example
Despite being underestimated by her colleagues, she had the last laugh when she was promoted to CEO.
to save the best for last
to keep the most exciting or interesting thing for the end
Example
She saved the best for last and surprised everyone with a fireworks display at the end of the party.

Phrases with last

at last
finally, after a long time
Example
At last, we arrived at our destination.
last but not least
an introduction to the final item in a list, emphasizing that it is equally important
Example
We want to thank all of our sponsors, and last but not least, our volunteers.
last straw
the final problem in a series of problems that makes someone lose patience or hope
Example
The traffic jam was bad enough, but when I got a flat tire, it was the last straw.

Origins of last

from Old English 'laest', meaning 'latest'

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Summary: last in Brief

The word 'last' [læst] can be used as an adjective, verb, or noun. It refers to something that comes after all others in time or order, such as 'This is the last chance to buy tickets,' or the final item in a list, series, or sequence. It can also mean 'most recent in time,' as in 'I saw him last night at the party.' 'Last' can be used in idioms like 'at last,' meaning finally, and 'to breathe one's last,' meaning to die.