“Last but not least” - Last in a sequence but not least in importance. This expression dates from the sixteenth century, when it was used by John Lyly, who may have been its originator. “Of these three but one can stand me in steede, the last, but not the least” (Euphues and His England, 1580). Soon afterward, it was used by Sir Philip Sidney, Edmund Spenser, and several times by Shakespeare (Julius Caesar, King Lear).
Related and Similar Terms:
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Not the least
- Meaning: Not insignificant or unimportant.
- Example: “She was tired, not the least because of the noisy neighbors.”
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Final but foremost
- Meaning: The last mentioned, yet still of great significance.
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Saved the best for last
- Meaning: Keeping the most valued item until the end.
- Example: “In her surprise party, she saved the best for last: a dance number!”
Humor-filled Quotes:
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“Think of it this way: when your boss says ’last but not least,’ it’s code for ‘I just made this up because I forgot someone important!’” - Anonymous
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“They call me ’last but not least.’ After all, it’s better than ‘first but forgettable!’” - Anon
Proverbs:
- “A true hero is last to speak but first to listen.”
- “In every finale, there’s the final notable feat.”
Related Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
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Shakespeare:
- Julius Caesar and King Lear - Authentic uses of the expression.
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Book:
- “The Hidden Meaning of Last Things: Final Words and Last Acts in Scene” by Edward Ayres - An analysis of important final moments.
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Song:
- “The Last and the Least” by Michael Card - A Christian song about humility and significance.
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Movie:
- The Kings Speech - Cement Union of giving importance to the seemingly last-hold person.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell:
“In life, the most ordinary conclusion often repays trenchant favor, accentuating its subtle supremacy above all - always remember, ’last but not least,’ is the gent’s accolade to every finale’s unseen hero.” - E. L. Quipster
