overdue
UK: ˌəʊvəˈdjuː | US: ˌoʊvərˈduː
adj. not paid, completed, or returned by the expected time
adj. delayed beyond an appointed time
adj. (figuratively) excessively prolonged or awaited
The word "overdue" combines "over" (from Old English "ofer," meaning "beyond" or "excessive") and "due" (from Old French "deu," past participle of "devoir," meaning "to owe"). The term emerged in the early 19th century to describe obligations (e.g., debts, tasks) that exceeded their expected completion time. The logic is straightforward: "over" intensifies "due," emphasizing lateness or excess.
The library books are overdue and incur a fine.
His promotion was long overdue after years of hard work.
The train is overdue by thirty minutes.
Climate action is an overdue priority for many governments.
She felt overdue for a vacation after months of nonstop work.