adj Uncommon

overdue

oh-vuh-DYOO

Overdue (adj) means Later than expected or scheduled; past the point at which something should have happened. Example: “The library book is three days overdue.”

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adj

Later than expected or scheduled; past the point at which something should have happened.

"The library book is three days overdue."

"A pay raise was long overdue after years of hard work."

How to use overdue

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPast the deadline, or something that should have happened already.

Common pairings

long overdue overdue payment overdue book

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: overdues
Comparative: more overdue
Superlative: most overdue

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The library book is three days _____.

Etymology

From over- + due.

Antonyms

premature punctual

Related words

early premature punctual on time

Rhymes for overdue

rue due sue cue hue blue true flue clue glue imbue pique

See all rhymes for overdue →

Frequently asked questions

What does “overdue” mean?

The word “overdue” means later than expected or scheduled; past the point at which something should have happened. In plain terms, past the deadline, or something that should have happened already.

How do you pronounce “overdue”?

“Overdue” is pronounced oh-vuh-DYOO (/ˌoʊ.vəɹˈdu/ in IPA).

How do you use “overdue” in a sentence?

Here is “overdue” used in a sentence: “The library book is three days overdue.”

What is the opposite of “overdue”?

The opposite of “overdue” — its antonyms — are premature and punctual.

What part of speech is “overdue”?

“Overdue” is an adjective.

Is “overdue” a common word?

“Overdue” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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