Late

/leɪt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Occurring after the expected or usual time.

She arrived late to the meeting due to traffic.

Belonging to a time near the end; recent.

He made a late in life decision to move to another country.

Dead or deceased.

In memory of my late grandfather, we gathered to celebrate his life.

adverb

After the expected, proper, or usual time.

I usually go to bed late on weekends.

At or toward the end of a period.

She submitted her assignment late, which affected her grade.

Middle English, from Old English 'læt'; related to Gothic 'lateis', meaning 'slow'.

better late than never

It is better to do something late than not do it at all.

late bloomer

Someone who develops more slowly than others.

late in the game

At a later stage in a process.

lateness

The quality or state of being late.

latency

The state of being latent or dormant.

latish

Somewhat late.

Running behind schedule.

I'm late to the party, so save me some cake!

Being after a designated time.

Don't be late, we need to leave by 8.