1.
tail end; rear; very back of a line or procession
The very last position in a queue, procession, or sequence. Commonly used when referring to the end of a line of people waiting, or the rear of a group or formation.
Combines 最後 (last) and 尾 (tail). The 尾 character reinforces the image of the very tail end — beyond merely being "last" (最後), 最後尾 specifically indicates the physical end position.
Common collocations
- 最後尾に並ぶ: to line up at the back
- 最後尾の人: the person at the very back
- 最後尾札: "end of line" sign (held by staff)
- 行列の最後尾: end of a queue
Usage
Very commonly seen at popular restaurants, theme parks, event venues, and shops where queues form. Staff members often hold signs reading 最後尾 to indicate where the line ends. The word carries a polite, somewhat formal register and is the standard term used in public signage.