English Reference
Word adjective · noun · adverb

latest

adj. · n. · adv.
US /ˈɫeɪtəst/ UK /lˈeɪtəst/ lat·est UK spelling latests
Definition
  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.the most recent or newest version of something.

    adj.denoting the most recent in a series or the newest available version of a product or idea.

    Simple

    “Have you seen the latest movie in the series yet?”

    In context

    “The latest research suggests that the previous assumptions about the planet's atmosphere were significantly flawed.”

    Synonyms
    newestmost recentcurrent
    Antonyms
    earliestoldest
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.the newest information or news about a situation.

    n.the most recent information, news, or fashion trends; typically used with the definite article.

    Simple

    “I just got home—tell me the latest about the wedding plans.”

    In context

    “Investors waited anxiously for the latest from the central bank regarding interest rate adjustments.”

    Usage

    Almost always used as 'the latest'.

    Synonyms
    newsupdatesdevelopments
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    adv.the furthest or last possible time that something can happen.

    adv.the final possible point in time for an event or deadline; almost exclusively used in the phrase 'at the latest'.

    Simple

    “Please send me the report by Friday at the latest.”

    In context

    “The shipment is expected to arrive on Tuesday afternoon, or Wednesday morning at the latest.”

    Usage

    Used in the fixed phrase 'at the latest' following a time or date.

    Synonyms
    no later than
    Antonyms
    at the earliest

Usage latest in science · latest news · latest paper

Etymology

From Middle English lateste, from Old English latost, latest, lætest, superlative of læt, whence English late.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old English latost
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated