belatedly
UK: bɪˈleɪtɪdli | US: bɪˈleɪtɪdli
adv. happening or arriving late
adv. done after the expected or proper time
The word "belatedly" combines the prefix "be-" (an intensifier from Old English) with "late" (from Old English læt, meaning "slow or tardy") and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (from Old English -līce). Originally, "belated" (early 17th century) described someone "overtaken by darkness" due to lateness, later generalizing to any delayed action. The "-ly" suffix transforms it into an adverb, emphasizing the tardiness.
She apologized belatedly for missing the meeting.
The package arrived belatedly due to a shipping error.
He realized belatedly that he had forgotten his keys.
The news of their victory was belatedly announced.
Belatedly, the government addressed the environmental crisis.