later
/ˈleɪtə//ˈleɪtɚ/adjective
Definitions
Near the end of a period of time.
Example: It was late in the evening when we finally arrived.
Specifically, near the end of the day.
Example: It was getting late and I was tired.
(usually not comparable) Associated with the end of a period.
Example: Late Latin is less fully inflected than classical Latin.
Not arriving until after an expected time.
Example: Even though we drove as fast as we could, we were still late.
adverb
Definitions
After a deadline has passed, past a designated time.
Example: We drove as fast as we could, but we still arrived late.
Formerly, especially in the context of service in a military unit.
Example: Colonel Easterwood, late of the 34th Carbines, was a guest at the dinner party.
Not long ago; just now.
adverb
Definitions
Afterward in time (used with than when comparing with another time).
Example: I arrived later than my roommate.
At some unspecified time in the future.
Example: I wanted to do it now, but I’ll have to do it later.
interjection
Definitions
See you later; goodbye.
Example: Later, dude.