last minute

American  

[min-it] / ˈmɪn ɪt /

noun

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

---

last-minute British  

noun

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

   last-minute preparations

---

Other Word Forms

• last-minute adjective

Etymology

Origin of last minute

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

She entered the race to challenge Bass, her one-time ally, at the last minute, hours before the early February filing deadline.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

At the last minute, India agreed not to veto an extension -- but only for a maximum of two years.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

At the last minute, Freed canceled their first date to a Rolling Stones concert, but Simon continued to pursue her.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

By comparison, Liverpool have won three matches with last minute or injury-time goals, with two of them coming in the first four games of the season.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

At the last minute, I put on a necktie.

From "The View From Saturday" by E.L. Konigsburg