tardy

(noun, adjective, verb)

adjective

1. after the expected or usual time; delayed

- tardy children are sent to the principal

- always tardy in making dental appointments

Similar word(s): unpunctual, belated, late

Sentences with tardy as an adjective:

- He yawned, then raised a tardy hand over his mouth.

- His tardy performance bordered on incompetence.

noun

1. (US) A piece of paper given to students who are late to class.

- The teacher gave her a tardy because she did not come into the classroom until after the bell.

verb

1. (obsolete, transitive) To make tardy.