adjective / pronoun

latter

The second of two things mentioned, or nearer the end of a period.

We offer tea and coffee, and most guests choose the latter.

Etymology

Latter is an older comparative form of late. It identifies the later of two mentioned things or the portion closer to the end of a sequence.

More examples

  • Of the two proposals, the latter plan costs less.
  • Most of the action happens in the latter half of the movie.
  • Her letters describe the latter years of her career.

Forms

latter

Similar words

second
Identifies position two in a sequence of any length.
later
Means farther along in time, without necessarily approaching the end.