leftover

1 of 2

noun

left·​over ˈleft-ˌō-vər 

1

: something that remains unused or unconsumed

especially : leftover food served at a later meal

—usually used in plural

2

: an anachronistic survival : vestige

leftover

2 of 2

adjective

: not consumed or used

leftover food

leftover space

Synonyms

Noun

• end
• fag end
• oddment
• remainder
• remnant
• scrap
• stub

Examples of leftover in a Sentence

Noun

Are we having leftovers again?

The law is a leftover from earlier times.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

How To Store Or Freeze Slow-Cooker Cowboy Casserole Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. —Craig Ruff, Southern Living, 20 Jan. 2025

One name is off the list, so the Cubs move down and try to sort out between the leftovers. —Phil Rogers, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025

Adjective

The vinegar will break down any remaining bits of food, grease, soap scum, residue, and any other leftover grime. —Kristi Kellogg, Architectural Digest, 15 Jan. 2025

Across the county, the wintry weather should taper off by Monday night, though leftover snow and ice could still effect commutes on Tuesday morning. —Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 3 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1864, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

leftover

noun

left·​over

ˈlef-ˌtō-vər

: something remaining

especially : food left over from one meal and served at another

—usually used in plural

leftover adjective