Belated: meaning, definitions and examples

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belated

[ bɪˈleɪtɪd ]

^{Context #1}

greetings

Coming or happening later than should have been the case; delayed.

Synonyms

delayed, late, tardy

Examples of usage

I apologize for the belated birthday wishes.
The belated response to the invitation was due to unforeseen circumstances.

^{Context #2}

gifts

Given or sent after the expected or usual time.

Synonyms

delayed, late, tardy

Examples of usage

He received a belated birthday present from his friend.
The belated anniversary gift arrived a week late.

Translations

Translations of the word "belated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atrasado

🇮🇳 देर से

🇩🇪 verspätet

🇮🇩 terlambat

🇺🇦 запізнілий

🇵🇱 spóźniony

🇯🇵 遅れた

🇫🇷 retardé

🇪🇸 tardío

🇹🇷 gecikmiş

🇰🇷 늦은

🇸🇦 متأخر

🇨🇿 opožděný

🇸🇰 oneskorený

🇨🇳 迟到的

🇸🇮 zamuden

🇮🇸 seinn

🇰🇿 кешіккен

🇬🇪 გვიანი

🇦🇿 gecikmiş

🇲🇽 tardío

Word origin

The word 'belated' originated from the Middle English word 'bileat', which means 'late' or 'delayed'. It has been used in the English language since the 17th century. The prefix 'be-' is used in 'belated' to intensify the meaning of 'late', emphasizing the delay or tardiness of something. Over time, 'belated' has become commonly used to describe things that are delayed or happening later than expected.