Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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}.

Source : WordNet®

tardy
     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}]
     [also: {tardiest}, {tardier}]

tardiest
     See {tardy}