lanterne rouge

Originating from the Tour de France, 'lanterne rouge' is a symbolic title given to the last-place competitor, named after the red safety lantern on the last carriage of trains.

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Definition

C1Cycling

(specific, tour de france)The rider who finishes in the last position in the Tour de France.

Example

  • Despite finishing as the lanterne rouge, the cyclist was celebrated for his perseverance.

B2General

(metaphorical, informal)The competitor or entity in the last position in any ranking or competition.

Example

  • In the company’s sales rankings, John was the lanterne rouge this quarter.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lanterne rouge":

yellow jersey