penultimate

American  

[pi-nuhl-tuh-mit] / pɪˈnʌl tə mɪt /

adjective

1. next to the last.

   the penultimate scene of the play.

2. of or relating to a penult or the next to the last syllable in a word.

   In the word appropriate, -pri- is the penultimate syllable.

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noun

1. a penult.

penultimate British  

/ pɪˈnʌltɪmɪt /

adjective

1. next to the last

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noun

1. anything that is next to the last, esp a penult

Etymology

Origin of penultimate

First recorded in 1670–80; penult, ultimate

Example Sentences

While Tuchel was happy with the overall performance of his players in this penultimate World Cup warm-up match, he was less pleased with the officials.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Wednesday’s meeting is slated to be Powell’s penultimate as chair, assuming that nominee Kevin Warsh is confirmed in time for the June 16-17 meeting.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

Powell's term as Fed chair ends in May, making this his penultimate meeting.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

The penultimate track, “Paint by Numbers,” an acoustic ballad with a pretty melody, is a rare aesthetic change-up on the record, but its titular metaphor is ultimately deflating.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

The story of how Fischer went into a swoon in the tournament’s first half, tying for last, yet ended up in the penultimate round tying for first with Spassky, has been told many times.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady