penultimate

[ pi-nuhl-tuh-mit ]

adjective

1. next to the last:

   the penultimate scene of the play.

2. of or relating to a penult or the next to the last syllable in a word:

   In the word appropriate, -pri- is the penultimate syllable.

noun

1. a penult.

penultimate

/ pɪˈnʌltɪmɪt /

adjective

1. next to the last

noun

1. anything that is next to the last, esp a penult

Word History and Origins

Origin of penultimate¹

First recorded in 1670–80; penult, ultimate

Word History and Origins

Origin of penultimate¹

C17: from Latin paene almost + ultimate , on the model of Latin paenultimus

Example Sentences

I wonder if it knew it was witnessing our penultimate act.

From Los Angeles Times

Powell's dismissal in the 17th over helped England regain some control, only for Sherfane Rutherford to hit back-to-back sixes in the penultimate over to seal a five-wicket win.

From BBC

When the left-hander finally picked out deep mid-wicket at the end of penultimate over, giving Mahmood his fourth wicket, England were on the back foot.

From BBC

The former president was scheduled for two more rallies in the state — in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia — before concluding the long campaign’s penultimate day.

From Los Angeles Times

He then established a clear lead in Tory MPs' penultimate ballot - only to be dramatically eliminated 24 hours later when they voted again: Badenoch 42, Jenrick 41, Cleverly 37.

From BBC