a. [mod. a. F. tardif, -ive: see TARDY.] Characterized by lateness, or tending to appear late; of late appearance or development. So † Tardivity [F. tardiveté], lateness of development or maturity. Obs. rare.
1696. Sir W. Hope, trans. Solleysel’s Parf. Mareschal, I. lxi. 177. Polypody is rather a preparative than purgative; people correct it with Liquorice, and to assist its tardive Vertue, with Ginger, Anniseeds, and Fennel.
1725. Bradley’s Fam. Dict., Tardivity, a Term, says Monsieur Chomel, which may, and ought to be made use of, tho’ at present obsolete, when such a Fruit is mention’d on the account of its becoming late ripe.
1905. H. D. Rolleston, Dis. Liver, 320. A case of tardive hereditary syphilis with stricture of the hepatic duct.
