overdue

[oh-ver-doo, -dyoo]

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.

overdue

/ ˌəʊvəˈdjuː /

adjective

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

Other Word Forms

• overdueness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of overdue¹

First recorded in 1835–45; over- + due

Example Sentences

Doug Herman, spokesperson for the Bass reelection campaign, defended the trash and sewer service fee increases, saying both were long overdue.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

More than a dozen environmental advocates who spoke Tuesday at the meeting where the vote was held praised the decision, saying the project is long overdue.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Charities said the move was long overdue, as families were still facing high energy bills, although some campaigners believe the industry should pay.

Read more on BBC

Our military alliances with Japan and South Korea are also undergoing an overdue modernization, including upgrading U.S.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

It’s long overdue and there’s something touching to the idea that the end of the world might unleash leadership qualities in those who’ve had a rough time existing in the old one.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• belated 
• delinquent 
• outstanding 
• tardy 
• unpaid