late
She arrived late to the meeting because of traffic.
She was not on time due to traffic delays.
happening after the expected or usual time
The train was late due to mechanical issues.
The train arrived after its scheduled time.
Don't stay up too late; you have work tomorrow.
Avoid being awake too far into the night.
Often used to describe delays or tardiness in time-sensitive situations.
of or relating to a period of time in the past
Late medieval history is fascinating.
The period of history just before the modern era is interesting.
She received a late birthday card.
The birthday card arrived after her birthday.
Used to describe something that is no longer current or recent.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'late' to describe delays or things that happen after the expected time.
Gold Rule
Adjective vs. Adverb
'Late' is primarily an adjective, but it can also function as an adverb in certain contexts, such as 'I arrived late.'
Word Origin
From Middle English 'lat', from Old English 'læt', meaning 'slow, sluggish, or tardy'.
Usage Notes
Can be used as an adjective to describe time-related delays or as an adverb to indicate something happening after the expected time.