late

noun

A shift (scheduled work period) that takes place late in the day or at night.

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.

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.