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

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

The table fills with supermarket vegetables, tubs of hummus, bags of chips, brownies purchased at the last minute.

From Salon • Mar. 15, 2026

Brazil's left-wing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva canceled his travel plans at the last minute, without explanation.

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

The crowds were expecting William and Kate to show up; and the addition of Harry and Meghan was so last minute that it caught even the couple off guard.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Jay had been staring at Susie for the last minute without speaking, quiet anger on his face.

From "Root Magic" by Eden Royce