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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

• last-minute
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of last minute

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Raman, who had endorsed Bass’ reelection before throwing her hat in at the last minute, came off as inexperienced, touchy and unprepared.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Another person said she was able to book a flight last minute through Spirit to attend her grandfather’s funeral.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

He brushed off questions about why he did not meet her when he visited Cardiff earlier this month, saying it was a "last minute decision to go".

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

A summit between Petro and Rodriguez had been scheduled for March in the Colombian border town of Cucuta, but was cancelled at the last minute.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

Every year a few storms fixed their sights on New Orleans, and they always petered out at the last minute.

From "I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005" by Lauren Tarshis