penultimate

UK: pɪˈnʌltɪmət | US: pɪˈnʌltɪmət

Definition

  1. adj. second to last in a series or sequence

Structure
pen <almost>ultimate <last>pen <almost>ultimate <last>
Etymology

penultimate = pen<almost> + ultimate<last>

  • pen<almost>: From Latin paene ("almost"), indicating proximity or nearness.
  • ultimate<last>: From Latin ultimus ("last"), denoting the final item in a series.

Etymology Origin:
The word penultimate combines Latin paene ("almost") and ultimus ("last"), literally meaning "almost last." It entered English in the 17th century as a precise term for the second-to-last item in a sequence, often used in linguistics, sports, or academic contexts. The morphemes retain their original Latin logic, making the word transparent to learners familiar with classical roots.

Examples

  1. The penultimate chapter of the book sets up the climax.

  2. She finished in the penultimate position in the race.

  3. The penultimate syllable in "communication" is stressed.

  4. Their penultimate album was their most successful.

  5. The penultimate step in the process is quality control.