A belated action happens later than it should have done. the government's belated attempts to alleviate the plight of the poor. a belated birthday present. + belatedly be·lat·ed·ly The leaders realized belatedly that the coup would be disastrous for everyone. happening or arriving late
after the expected or usual time; delayed; "a belated birthday card"; "I'm late for the plane"; "the train is late"; "tardy children are sent to the principal"; "always tardy in making dental appointments"