due

UK: djuː | US: duː

Definition

  1. adj. owed or owing as a debt or right

  2. adj. expected or scheduled to happen or arrive

  3. n. something that is owed or deserved

Structure
du <owed>
Etymology

The word due traces back to Latin debitus, meaning "owed." It entered English via Old French deu, retaining its core sense of obligation or expectation. Over time, it expanded to include scheduled events (due date) and deserved outcomes (give credit where it's due). The silent -e reflects its French influence, though the pronunciation simplified in English.

Examples

  1. The rent is due on the first of each month.

  2. The report is due by Friday.

  3. She finally received the recognition due to her hard work.

  4. The train is due to arrive at 3 PM.

  5. Handle the fragile items with due care.