l8

Adjective

late (comparative later, superlative latest)

1. Near the end of a period of time.
   • The seedlings appeared to be coming along nicely until a late frost killed them.
2. Specifically, near the end of the day.
   • It was getting late and I was tired.
3. (not comparable, usually) Associated with the end of a period.
   • Late Latin is less fully inflected than Classical Latin.
4. Not arriving or occurring until after an expected time.
   • The flowers were late in blooming because of the prolonged cold weather.

   Synonyms:

   tardy

5. Levied as a surcharge on a payment which has not arrived by a specified deadline.
   • The power company suspended late fees during the pandemic.
6. Not having had an expected menstrual period.
   • I'm late, honey. Could you buy a test?

See all 14 meanings of late