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• last minute
  last minute

  noun

  the time just preceding a deadline or when some decisive action must be taken.
• last-minute
  last-minute

  noun

  (modifier) given or done at the latest possible time

last minute

American  

[min-it] / ˈmɪn ɪt /

noun

1. the time just preceding a deadline or when some decisive action must be taken.

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last-minute British  

noun

1. (modifier) given or done at the latest possible time

   last-minute preparations

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• last-minute
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of last minute

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

His opponent suffered an injury and withdrew last minute; his replacement pulled out the day before the fight.

From Slate • Jun. 14, 2026

"I'm pretty free range," said mother Deng Ju, standing across from the exam hall holding a stack of practice books for her daughter, revising last minute with her friend nearby.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

Instead, it was a sad affair, thrown together at the last minute and unable to book anyone more interesting than Kid Rock as a headliner.

From Salon • Jun. 3, 2026

The two sides were close to a settlement last week, but discussions fell apart at the last minute.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

Arletta Paisley appeared at the very last minute; signs flashed for applause.

From "Hope Springs" by Jaime Berry