Last

Definition

Last can function as an adjective, adverb, noun, and verb. As an adjective, it refers to something final or occurring at the end. As an adverb, it means most recently. As a noun, it refers to the final or concluding event or item. As a verb, it means to endure or persist over time.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /læst/ or /læːst/
• Respelling: LAST

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lɑːst/
• Respelling: LAHST

Etymology

The word "last" originates from Old English "lǣstan," meaning "to perform or follow through." Its adjectival sense derives from Old English "latest," denoting "final." Over time, it came to be used in various grammatical forms, maintaining the core idea of "finality" or "endurance."

Derivatives

• Lastly (adverb)
• Lasting (adjective)
• Lasted (verb, past tense)
• Everlasting (adjective)
• Lastness (noun)

Synonyms

• Final
• End
• Ultimate

Antonyms

• First
• Initial
• Beginning

Usage

The term "last" is highly versatile. For example, as an adjective: "This is the last chapter of the book." As a noun: "The last of the tickets were sold yesterday." As a verb: "The performance lasted for three hours." Its flexibility allows it to describe temporal, sequential, or enduring concepts.

Related Terms

• Finality: The state of being final or complete.
• Duration: The time during which something lasts.
• Persistence: The quality of continuing firmly over time.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Coming after all others in time or order: Indicates the final position or occurrence.
  • Example: "The last train leaves at midnight."
• Most recent in time: Refers to the most recent event or instance.
  • Example: "I saw her last week."

Adverb

• Most recently: Refers to the most recent point in time.
  • Example: "When did you last visit the museum?"

Noun

• The final person, event, or item: Describes the conclusion or end.
  • Example: "She was the last to leave the party."
• The final remaining part: Refers to the only thing left.
  • Example: "The last of the cookies was eaten."

Verb

• To endure or continue over time: Refers to persisting or existing.
  • Example: "The meeting lasted longer than expected."
• To survive or remain functional: Describes enduring conditions.
  • Example: "This car will last for years."