1A later course in a meal; specifically the final course; a dessert.
2A way of life or mode of behaviour that is followed at a later point in time; the later part of the development of anything that continues in time, as a person's life, a disease, etc.
Origin
Late 16th century; earliest use found in Claudius Hollyband (fl. 1573–1583), linguist and writer. From after- + course.