Tardy Meaning and Definition

Tardy

Tardy

Pronunciation

/ˈtɑːrdi/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A delay or being late, especially in performing tasks or meeting deadlines.

Examples

  • She always arrives tardy to meetings, which has caused friction with her colleagues.
  • The project was delayed due to a tardy team member who didn’t meet the deadline.
  • The employee was given a warning for repeatedly displaying tardy behavior.
  • Tardiness has become a major issue in the company, affecting employee morale and productivity.

Etymology

The word “Tardy” comes from the Old French word “tard”, meaning “late”, and has been in use since the 14th century.

Usage Notes

When describing someone or something that is late, it’s common to use the phrase “a tad tardy” for a minor delay, or “significantly tardy” for a more substantial delay.

Cultural References

The phrase “Tardy for the Party” is a popular song by rapper Snoop Dogg released in the late 90s.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • A tad tardy
  • Significantly tardy
  • Late to the party

Related Words or Phrases

  • Delay
  • Slack
  • Lag

Collocations

  • Tardy for meetings
  • Tardy with deadlines
  • Tardy in reporting

Frequency of Use

The word “Tardy” is commonly used in contemporary language, especially in professional and business settings, to describe delays or lateness.

Common Misspellings

  • Tardy-ly
  • Triad
  • Turned

Related Words