belated
UK: bɪˈleɪtɪd | US: bɪˈleɪtɪd
adj. 1. Delayed beyond the usual or expected time.
adj. 2. Existing or arriving after the due, proper, or expected time.
The word "belated" originates from the prefix "be-" (an intensifier in Old English) combined with "late" (from Old English læt, meaning "slow or delayed") and the suffix "-ed" (forming adjectives). Originally, "be-" emphasized the state of being "late," evolving to describe actions or events occurring after the expected time. The term reflects a logical progression from the core idea of lateness to its modern connotation of tardiness.
She sent a belated birthday card after forgetting the date.
His belated apology did little to mend their friendship.
The team made a belated attempt to fix the error.
Belated recognition of the issue caused further complications.
We received a belated response to our inquiry.