What is "tardiest"

Tardy \Tar"dy\, a. [Compar. Tardier; superl. Tardiest.] [F. tardif, fr. (assumed) LL. tardivus, fr. L. tardus slow.]

1. Moving with a slow pace or motion; slow; not swift.

   And check the tardy flight of time.
   --Sandys.

   Tardy to vengeance, and with mercy brave.
   --Prior.

2. Not being inseason; late; dilatory; -- opposed to prompt; as, to be tardy in one's payments.
   --Arbuthnot.

   The tardy plants in our cold orchards placed.
   --Waller.

3. Unwary; unready. [Obs.]
   --Hudibras.

4. Criminal; guilty. [Obs.]
   --Collier.

   Syn: Slow; dilatory; tedious; reluctant. See Slow.

a. (en-superlativetardy)

1. adj. after the expected or usual time; delayed; "a belated birthday card"; "I'm late for the plane"; "the train is late"; "tardy children are sent to the principal"; "always tardy in making dental appointments" [syn: belated, late]

2. [also: tardiest, tardier]

See tardy