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Tardiest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tardiest

[ˈtɑːrdiəst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

time management

Tardiest is the superlative form of tardy, which means being late or delayed. It describes someone or something that is the most late compared to others. For instance, if a student consistently arrives late to class, they might be described as the tardiest among their peers. The term can also apply to events that happen later than scheduled. Generally, it conveys a negative connotation, as punctuality is often valued in various settings.

Synonyms

latest, most behind, most delayed.

Examples of usage

  • She was the tardiest in the group during the meeting.
  • The tardiest bus arrived 30 minutes late.
  • He always submits the tardiest assignments in class.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • Being tardy can affect a student's attendance record, which might lead to consequences in schools.
  • Many schools have specific policies regarding tardiness, often setting limits for how many times a student can arrive late.
  • Teachers often encourage punctuality by discussing the importance of being on time for classes or meetings.

Pop Culture

  • In many comedians' routines, arriving late is a common theme that highlights the funny situations around tardiness.
  • 'Tardiness' is often depicted in movies and TV shows where characters miss important events due to their late arrivals.
  • Songs and lyrics frequently address lateness, emphasizing both the humorous and serious aspects of being 'the tardiest.'

Psychology

  • Chronic tardiness can sometimes be linked to anxiety or time management issues.
  • Some studies suggest that people who are frequently late may perceive time differently than punctual individuals.
  • A person's tardiness can affect their relationships, as others may view them as inconsiderate or unreliable.

Origin of 'tardiest'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Tardy' comes from the Latin word 'tardus', meaning slow or sluggish.
  • The suffix '-est' is used in English to compare three or more items, making 'tardiest' the superlative form of 'tardy'.
  • 'Tardy' was first used in English around the late 14th century.

The word 'tardy' comes from the Latin word 'tardus', which means 'slow, sluggish, or late'. Its original usage in English dates back to the early 17th century. The superlative form 'tardiest' emerged later, taking its place in the language to describe an extreme degree of lateness. Over time, the term has been used across various contexts, especially in education and formal settings, to emphasize the importance of punctuality. The growing emphasis on time management in modern society has kept the term relevant, highlighting the negative consequences of being tardy.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,130, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.