later
adjective
- 1
Near the end of a period of time.
“It was late in the evening when we finally arrived.”
- 2
Specifically, near the end of the day.
“It was getting late and I was tired.”
- 3
(usually not comparable) Associated with the end of a period.
“Late Latin is less fully inflected than classical Latin.”
- 4
Not arriving until after an expected time.
“Even though we drove as fast as we could, we were still late.”
- 5
Not having had an expected menstrual period.
“I'm late, honey. Could you buy a test?”
- 6
Deceased, dead: used particularly when speaking of the dead person's actions while alive. (Often used with "the"; see usage notes.)
“Her late husband had left her well provided for.”
- 7
Existing or holding some position not long ago, but not now; departed, or gone out of office.
“the late administration”
- 8
Recent — relative to the noun it modifies.
- 9
Of a star or class of stars, cooler than the sun.
adverb
- 1
After a deadline has passed, past a designated time.
“We drove as fast as we could, but we still arrived late.”
- 2
Formerly, especially in the context of service in a military unit.
“Colonel Easterwood, late of the 34th Carbines, was a guest at the dinner party.”
- 3
Not long ago; just now.
adverb
- 1
Afterward in time (used with than when comparing with another time).
“I arrived later than my roommate.”
- 2
At some unspecified time in the future.
“I wanted to do it now, but I’ll have to do it later.”
Antonyms
interjection
- 1
See you later; goodbye.
“Later, dude.”
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