What does latish mean?
Latish means somewhat late, later than expected, or later than would be convenient. It is an informal word especially associated with British English and is often used when acknowledging a delay without making the situation sound too serious. As an adjective, it can describe a person, event, or arrival: “The bus was rather latish.” As an adverb, it modifies the timing of an action: “We arrived latish.” The word is useful in conversation because it conveys lateness while sounding gentler and less accusatory than simply saying that someone was late. It can also suggest that something has happened somewhat later than customary or desirable, as in “The results are a bit latish.” Although related in meaning to “late,” “tardy,” and “belated,” latish is generally less formal and implies a moderate rather than serious degree of lateness.
Somewhat late or later than expected or convenient.
"Our departure was rather latish that morning."
Informal and especially associated with British English; often used to soften an apology or admission of delay.
At a somewhat late time or later than expected or convenient.
"The ceremony began latish, so we missed most of the opening remarks."
Informal and especially associated with British English.
Latish is the ideal word for an apology that admits you were late, but not late enough to sound truly guilty.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of latish
Latish was formed in English by combining late with the productive suffix -ish, which indicates a degree or approximation and commonly means “somewhat” or “rather.” The older word late descends from Middle English and ultimately from Old English. The modern formation is transparent in meaning: latish literally conveys a condition that is somewhat late.
How latish is actually used
This is an informal, mildly apologetic word, especially associated with British English. It often softens an admission of lateness and is generally less common in formal writing.
Easily confused with latish
Latish means somewhat late, whereas latest means the most recent or current version of something.