The present invention provides an optical connector with the character that a cantilever type latch having the fixed end on the side of exposing the terminal end surface of the optical fiber is provided on the side of the plug housing. Near the center of the upper surface of the latch, an engaging projection which is to be engaged in the engaging hole formed in the adapter or the receptacle is formed. The engaging projection has the slope which decreases the height toward the fixed end side of the latch, in which the gradient of the slope is nearly equal to or greater than the rotation angle required for the elastic deformation of the latch with the fixed end functioned as the fulcrum. Thereby easy disconnecting of the latch is implemented.