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

That touted move to Manchester United for the latter? —Phil Hay, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025

Vitamin D should be taken with vitamin K because the latter helps boost the effectiveness of the former. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 24 Jan. 2025

Social Media breaks down to Facebook and Twitter, but clicking the former crashes the app, and clicking the latter does nothing. —PCMAG, 24 Jan. 2025

The former was announced as the official underwear of the league in 2023; the latter became its first textured hair partner that same year. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 23 Jan. 2025