What does latecomer mean?
A latecomer is someone who arrives, joins, or starts something later than other people or later than expected. The word is neutral in tone and is especially common for a person who arrives late at a meeting, performance, meal, or social gathering. It can also be used more broadly to describe someone who enters a field, activity, or group after it has already begun. The term may carry a mildly critical connotation when someone is repeatedly late, but it can also be used without criticism to emphasize that a person’s involvement began later. “Latecomer to the party” is a familiar expression that can describe literal arrival or metaphorical participation in an activity. In the phrase “a latecomer to the sport,” the word presents the person as a relative newcomer whose interest or participation began after the activity was established.
nounA person who arrives, joins, or begins something after others or after the expected time.
- A person who arrives or joins later than others or later than expected.
"The latecomer was embarrassed to find the meeting already under way."
"The latecomer took a seat near the back of the room."
"As a latecomer to the sport, she quickly developed a strong enthusiasm for it."
The usual plural form for more than one latecomer.
"Several latecomers entered just as the performance ended."
A latecomer may be late, but being the last to arrive can also turn out to be a memorable arrival.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does latecomer come from?
Latecomer is an English compound formed from “late” and “comer,” a person who comes. “Late” developed from the Old English adjective læt, while “comer” derives from the Old English verb cuman, meaning “to come.” The compound expresses the straightforward idea of someone who comes later than others or later than expected.
How latecomer is actually used
Neutral and widely used. It can describe a person arriving late, joining a group or activity later than others, or beginning an activity later than expected.
Easily confused with latecomer
A latecomer arrives after the expected or customary time, whereas a straggler is someone or something that trails behind or lags behind a group.