straggler

[strag-ler]

noun

1. a person or thing that lags behind others.

   We’re waiting for a few stragglers, but all entries must be in by Wednesday, March 4th.

2. a person, animal, ship, etc., that wanders around or strays from a path or course.

   The French steamer Tourny, a straggler from its convoy, was sunk by a German U-boat.

   There was a wood quail just 5 yards away on the trail, presumably a straggler from the covey.

3. one of a number of persons or things scattered thinly or at irregular intervals in space or time.

   I didn’t see too many weeds in the garden—just two or three stragglers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of straggler¹

First recorded in 1525–35; straggle ( def. ) + -er ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

“She’s gone, dance on. See you in April,” the festival posted Monday, announcing that all GA and VIP passes were spoken for, and inviting any stragglers to join wait lists for both weekends.

From Los Angeles Times

The ship happened to have recently rolled out a new “solo traveler” package, so surely there would be other lonely stragglers eager to make new friends.

From Salon

The pace is not set by the slowest walker, and urban walks don’t include “sweep” people at the back to gather up stragglers.

From Los Angeles Times

The Republicans pushed the illusion of momentum to motivate any stragglers to go with the perceived winner.

From Salon

Even Hezbollah security officials, normally a constant presence on the streets here, were scarce, with only a few stragglers posted near struck areas.

From Los Angeles Times