a. Delayed beyond the usual time; too late; overtaken by night; benighted. “Some belated peasant.” Milton. -- Be*lat"ed*ness, n. Milton. [1913 Webster]
(adj) after the expected or usual time; delayed, Syn. late, tardy, Example:a belated birthday card; I'm late for the plane; the train is late; tardy children are sent to the principal; always tardy in making dental appointments