Belate

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To make late or to postpone something beyond the expected time
2. to cause a delay or hindrance in the timing of an event or action
3. or to arrive later than the scheduled or proper time for a specific occasion

Etymology: The verb in question traces its roots back to Middle English, where it appeared as "belaten," meaning to delay or detain. This form itself was derived from the Old English prefix "be-" combined with the verb "late," which, in its older sense, meant to delay or hinder. The prefix "be-" often served to intensify or alter the meaning of the root, so "belate" essentially carried the sense of causing lateness or making something late. The root "late" originates from the Old English "læt," which meant slow or tardy. Over time, this adjective evolved into the modern English "late," referring to something occurring after the expected or usual time. The verb form "to late" had largely fallen out of use by the early modern English period, but the verb "belate" lingered as a more formal or literary term for causing delay. Usage of this verb was more common in earlier centuries, particularly the 15th and 16th centuries, often appearing in texts that described hindering progress or causing someone to arrive after the appointed time. Its use today is quite rare and considered archaic or poetic, but it survives in literature where the sense of intentional or unfortunate delay is emphasized. In terms of morphology, "belate" is a straightforward verbal formation: "be-" (a causative or intensive prefix) plus "late" (to delay). This construction is similar to other verbs in English where "be-" is added to an adjective or noun to form a verb that means "to cause to be" that quality or state.

Synonyms: delay, postpone, defer, tarry, linger

Antonyms: hasten, advance, expedite, accelerate, rush