tardiness

[tahr-dee-nis]

noun

1. the state or quality of being later than the usual or proper time, or an instance of this; lateness.

   Please forgive my tardiness in communicating with everyone once again.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tardiness¹

tardy ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

She was late so often for school that administrators said she might have to repeat some classes and asked for a doctor’s note to explain the tardiness.

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“Some kids aren’t emotionally prepared for the transition to kindergarten, which affects their attendance and tardiness,” said one parent.

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Others riffed on her well-known history of tardiness.

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A rabbit in full formal attire, prattling on about his tardiness?

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It also forbade suspensions and expulsions for truancy and tardiness.

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