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last
/læst/
final or most recent
This is the last chapter of the book.
It means this is the final chapter.
general
final or most recent in a sequence
She took the last piece of cake.
She took the final piece of cake.
Commonly used to refer to the final item or moment in a sequence.
general
most recent or latest
What was the last movie you watched?
Asking about the most recent movie watched.
Often used to refer to the most recent event or item.
general
to continue until the end
I will last until the end of the race.
I will continue until the race is over.
Used to describe endurance or persistence.
general
to survive or endure
The old car lasted for 20 years.
The car endured for 20 years.
Used to describe something that continues to function or exist.
Collocations
last but not leastfinal but still importantlast chancefinal opportunitylast resortfinal option when all else fails
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage as an adjective
'Last' as an adjective typically comes after the noun it modifies, e.g., 'the last chapter'.
Usage as a verb
When used as a verb, 'last' means to continue or endure, e.g., 'The battery will last for hours'.
Gold Rule
Position in sentences
When used as an adjective, 'last' usually comes after the noun it modifies, e.g., 'the last day'.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'lasten', from Old English 'læstan', meaning 'to endure, last out'.
Usage Notes
The word 'last' can function as an adjective, adverb, noun, or verb depending on the context. It is commonly used to refer to the final item or moment in a sequence, the most recent event, or to describe endurance or persistence.
Word Breakdown
last
final or most recent
rootEnglish Dictionary