adj

belated

bih-LAY-tihd

Belated (adj) means happening later than it should have, or after the expected or proper time. Example: “She sent a belated birthday card two weeks after the date.”

adj

Happening later than it should have, or after the expected or proper time.

"She sent a belated birthday card two weeks after the date."

"He offered a belated apology for missing the meeting."

How to use belated

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLate — arriving or happening after it was supposed to.

Common pairings

belated birthday wishes a belated apology belated recognition

Word forms

more belated comparative, most belated superlative

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She sent a _____ birthday card two weeks after the date.

Rhymes for belated

dated sated hated elated heated seated treated related bloated prorated agitated animated

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Frequently asked questions

What does “belated” mean?

The word “belated” means happening later than it should have, or after the expected or proper time. In plain terms, late — arriving or happening after it was supposed to.

How do you pronounce “belated”?

“Belated” is pronounced bih-LAY-tihd (/bɪˈleɪtɪd/ in IPA).

How do you use “belated” in a sentence?

Here is “belated” used in a sentence: “She sent a belated birthday card two weeks after the date.”

What part of speech is “belated”?

“Belated” is an adjective.