overdue

American  

[oh-ver-doo, -dyoo] / ˌoʊ vərˈdu, -ˈdyu /

adjective

1. past due, as a delayed train or a bill not paid by the assigned date; late.

   two overdue library books.

   Synonyms:

   behindhand, tardy

2. too long awaited; needed or expected for some time.

   Improvements in our highway system are long overdue.

3. more than sufficiently advanced, mature, or ready.

   That country is overdue for industrial development.

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overdue British  

/ ˌəʊvəˈdjuː /

adjective

1. past the time specified, required, or preferred for arrival, occurrence, payment, etc

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Other Word Forms

• overdueness noun

Etymology

Origin of overdue

First recorded in 1835–45; over- + due

Example Sentences

While welcoming the move as a long overdue step towards ending the haemorrhaging of the country's natural wealth, critics question its feasibility, while workers fear for their jobs.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

His bank account is already $500 short, the officer said, and his utility company has threatened to shut off his power next month if he doesn’t pay his overdue bills before then.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

But Oscar cares little about being overdue and less about making that kind of history.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights in Los Angeles, said Noem’s departure was long overdue.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2026

He was long overdue for a rise in rank, but for all his size and bluster, the captain disliked nosing about for promotions and salary increases.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• belated
• delinquent
• outstanding
• tardy
• unpaid