LATTER Meaning and
Definition
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The term "latter" is a word used to describe the second of two items or people that have been mentioned, typically when comparing or contrasting them. It is derived from the Old English word "lættra," which means "later" or "last." The concept of "latter" is often employed to clarify or distinguish between two options following an initial reference or comparison.
In its adjective form, "latter" can refer to something that occurs or exists in the final or later part of a sequence. It serves to indicate the latter option being discussed, following a prior mention of another option. For example, when comparing two books, one might say, "The first book was interesting, but the latter one truly captivated me." Here, "latter" is used to emphasize the second book as the one that elicited a stronger reaction or interest.
The term "latter" can also be used as a pronoun, standing alone to represent the second of two things already discussed. For instance, in a sentence like "John and Kate both applied for the position, but only the latter was selected," "latter" refers to Kate, distinguishing her as the one who was chosen.
In summary, "latter" is an adjective or pronoun that helps clarify and distinguish the second of two items or people mentioned, typically following an initial reference or comparison. It serves to emphasize the latter option in relation to a former one.
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Coming or happening after something else; opposite of former.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for LATTER *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for LATTER
Etymology of LATTER
The word "latter" originates from the Old English word "lætra", which means "later" or "later part of". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "laitizo", meaning "late". This word is further connected to the Proto-Indo-European root "*leit-", which has the sense of "to leave behind" or "to let go". The word "latter" has maintained its meaning since Old English and is commonly used to refer to the second of two mentioned elements or the last mentioned of a group of more than two elements.
Idioms with the word LATTER
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at latter Lammas
The idiom "at latter Lammas" refers to something that happens or is completed at a very late stage, often when it is almost too late. It is derived from the traditional festival of Lammas, which falls on August 1st, and "latter" meaning later or last.
Similar spelling words for LATTER
- fatter,
- litter,
- lathery,
- lather,
- loiter,
- flatter,
- ladder,
- larder,
- la tour,
- lottery,
- clatter,
- batter,
- letter,
- lauder,
- later,
- late,
- latria,
- matter,
- platter,
- looter,
- latorre,
- tatter,
- latour,
- liter,
- Latoria,
- lauter.
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