belated

/bɪˈleɪtɪd/adjective

Arriving or done after the proper or expected time.

Example sentence

“Sorry this is a belated reply; your email got buried in my inbox.”

Overwhelmingly used in "belated birthday wishes" and "a belated apology". It carries a small note of guilt about the lateness.

Related words

belligerentTaking part in a war or armed conflict.bedsheetA large piece of fabric made to cover a bed or lie under a sleeper.benefitSomething useful or helpful that a person gains from a thing or situation.bedroomThe room in a home or hotel that holds a bed and is used for sleeping.benevolentKind-hearted and wishing to do good for others.beckonA silent gesture used to communicate something, such as calling someone over.