last-gasp

adjective

ˈlas(t)-ˈgasp How to pronounce last-gasp (audio)
: done or coming at the very end
a last-gasp attempt to score
last gasp noun

Examples of last-gasp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Sky spent the last week teetering on the edge, racking up a few last-gasp wins to hold off the looming inevitability of their own elimination. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026 Newcastle United Newcastle United 2 Liverpool 2 The kick-in-the-guts last-gasp equaliser apart, this was fun. — Stuart James, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 These are the shows that are the ones left standing, and with enough in their marketing budgets to give it one last-gasp whirl. — Pete Hammond, Deadline, 14 Aug. 2026 The reigning champions produced late drama in their last two knockout matches, beating England 2-1 and Egypt 3-2 with last-gasp goals after trailing for large portions of both games. — Mark Hodge, NBC news, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for last-gasp

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of last-gasp was in 1921

Rhymes for last-gasp

See All Rhymes for last-gasp

Browse Nearby Words

Lastex
last-gasp
last-gasp goal
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Last-gasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/last-gasp. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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