overdue

adjective

over·​due ˌō-vər-ˈdü How to pronounce overdue (audio)
-ˈdyü
Synonyms of overduenext
1
a
: unpaid when due
an overdue bill
b
: delayed beyond an appointed time
an overdue train
overdue library books
2
: too great : excessive
an overdue share of the profits
3
: more than ready
overdue for a haircut

Synonyms of overdue

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Examples of overdue in a Sentence

She reminded him that the rent was overdue. He has many overdue bills. The train is 10 minutes overdue.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the bold pronouncements that will accompany Jaissle’s appointment — and perhaps some long overdue stadium update sooner rather than later — will be met with a measure of caution on Tyneside. — Oliver Kay, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026 The Illinois Federation of Teachers, led by CTU President Stacy Davis Gates, also filed suit against Pappas to force her to get bills out the door earlier and immediately distribute overdue funds. — Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026 Keep in mind, the lunar eclipse in Pisces could bring a relationship turning point, perhaps even one that’s been long overdue. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026 We have been warned for years about this problem and the fixes, many of which are easily achievable, are long overdue. — Steve Weisman, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for overdue

Word History

First Known Use

1763, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of overdue was in 1763

Rhymes for overdue

See All Rhymes for overdue

Browse Nearby Words

overdub
overdue
overdye
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Overdue.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/overdue. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

overdue

adjective
over·​due ˌō-vər-ˈd(y)ü How to pronounce overdue (audio)
1
a
: unpaid when due
overdue bills
b
: not appearing or presented on time
an overdue train
an overdue book
2
: more than ready
a country overdue for governmental reform

More from Merriam-Webster on overdue

Nglish: Translation of overdue for Spanish Speakers

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