17 Funny Nicknames for Someone Who Is Always Late

We all know someone who just can’t seem to make it on time whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, the person who is perpetually running behind. But instead of getting frustrated, why not add some humor to the situation?

Giving a playful nickname to someone who’s always late can lighten the mood and even motivate them to improve their punctuality (or at least make the wait a little more fun).

Below, we’ll explore 17 funny nicknames that capture the essence of those who are always fashionably late.

Tardy Tortoise

The Tardy Tortoise is the classic slowpoke who just can’t seem to make it out the door on time. It’s a fun reference to the old fable where the tortoise takes its time but still reaches the destination.

• Use it when: You want to tease a friend about their leisurely pace, especially if they’re someone who takes their time getting ready.
• Example: “There she is, our Tardy Tortoise, finally joining us!”

Chronically Delayed Dude

This one’s for the guy who’s always 10–20 minutes behind, no matter the situation. The term “chronically delayed” makes it sound like it’s an ongoing condition—something he just can’t escape.

• Use it when: You’re lightheartedly pointing out someone’s consistent tardiness.
• Example: “Where’s Jack? I bet our Chronically Delayed Dude is still stuck in traffic.”

Last-Minute Larry

Larry might not be the only one always scrambling at the last second, but he gets the name for his frequent mad dash to catch up with the group.

• Use it when: You’re talking about someone who always seems to rush at the final moment.
• Example: “You made it, Last-Minute Larry! I thought we were going to leave without you!”

Behind-the-Times Betty

This nickname is for someone who is always behind, whether it’s on trends, technology, or just showing up for plans. “Behind-the-Times” gives it an amusing spin.

• Use it when: You want to poke fun at someone who’s perpetually catching up.
• Example: “Behind-the-Times Betty is finally here, though she missed the first half!”

Slowpoke Steve

A nickname that says it all—Steve’s always lagging behind the group, taking his time to get anywhere.

• Use it when: You’re gently teasing someone who moves at a slower pace.
• Example: “Oh, here comes Slowpoke Steve, just in time for dessert!”

Delayed Diva

This one’s perfect for someone who has a flair for drama and always arrives just a little too late to all the action.

• Use it when: You want to add a touch of glamour and humor to someone’s tardiness.
• Example: “The Delayed Diva has entered the room!”

Time-Traveling Tina

For someone who might seem like they’re coming from a different dimension in terms of timing. Time-Traveling Tina is never quite synced with everyone else.

• Use it when: You’re trying to lighten the mood about someone’s inconsistent timing.
• Example: “Hey, Tina! Did you just arrive from the future or are you late again?”

Punctuality-Challenged Pete

When Pete just can’t seem to get it together on time, this name is a playful way of saying he struggles with punctuality.

• Use it when: You want to highlight someone’s consistent lateness without sounding too harsh.
• Example: “Punctuality-Challenged Pete strikes again!”

Always-Running-Late Rachel

This nickname is for that one person who’s consistently running late but always seems to have a good reason for it.

• Use it when: You’re not too upset about their lateness and are just having fun with it.
• Example: “Look who it is—Always-Running-Late Rachel! We were starting to wonder if you’d make it.”

Procrastination Pro Percy

A fitting nickname for someone who leaves everything to the last minute and ends up showing up late because of it. Percy’s procrastination is legendary.

• Use it when: You want to joke about someone’s habit of putting things off.
• Example: “Ah, Procrastination Pro Percy finally graces us with his presence!”

Behind-Schedule Bob

Bob may have every intention of being on time, but somehow, he’s always behind. This nickname acknowledges his constant struggle with staying on track.

• Use it when: You want to point out that Bob’s always just a step behind.
• Example: “Here’s Behind-Schedule Bob, fashionably late as always!”

Always-on-Island Time Irene

Irene never seems to feel the pressure of time—she’s always in her own little world, much like someone living on “island time,” where punctuality isn’t a priority.

• Use it when: You’re playfully noting how laid-back and unfazed Irene is about time.
• Example: “It’s okay, we’re all on Always-on-Island Time Irene’s schedule now.”

Latecomer Lenny

The name says it all. Lenny may show up, but he’s always the last one in the room.

• Use it when: You’re teasing a friend who’s known for always arriving late.
• Example: “Ah, our favorite Latecomer Lenny has arrived—just in time for dessert!”

What Do You Call Someone Who Is Always Late?

You can call them a “Master of Delays.” This nickname recognizes their continual struggle with being on time, while still keeping things lighthearted. It’s perfect for that person who is always apologizing for being late but never seems to change their habits.

• Use it when: They are known for always running behind, no matter what the event is.
• Example: “Ah, here comes the Master of Delays, just in time to catch the last part of the meeting!”

Nickname for Someone Who Is Always Late

“Fashionably Late” is a classic nickname for someone who shows up after everyone else has already arrived, but they do so with style. It implies that their lateness is part of their charm, even if it can be a bit frustrating.

• Use it when: They tend to arrive late but always make an entrance.
• Example: “Look who finally made it—Fashionably Late as usual!”

What Is It Called When Someone Is Always Late?

When someone is perpetually late, you can call them a “Chronic Tardy.” It’s a playful way to acknowledge that this is not just an occasional slip-up, but a consistent habit.

• Use it when: Someone is known for their constant lateness, no matter how much they try to rush.
• Example: “Oh, there goes Chronic Tardy, taking their sweet time as always!”

What to Say When Someone Is Late Funny

A funny thing to say when someone is late is, “The Latecomer Extraordinaire.” This acknowledges their tendency to show up after everyone else, with a bit of humor and flair. It’s a way of calling out their habit without being too serious about it.

• Use it when: Someone always seems to be the last to arrive, but you want to keep it light.
• Example: “Here’s our Latecomer Extraordinaire, better late than never!”

Funny Nickname for Someone Who Is Always Late

For someone who never seems to be on time, “Mr./Ms. Five More Minutes” is an ideal nickname. This one speaks to their never-ending habit of asking for just a little more time, which always stretches on longer than expected.

• Use it when: They’re always pushing back their departure or arrival time.
• Example: “Well, well, Mr. Five More Minutes is finally here—did you hit snooze again?”

Conclusion

Using a funny nickname for someone who’s always late is a great way to lighten the mood and keep things fun. Each of these playful names offers a little humor while acknowledging their chronic tardiness, all without sounding too serious.

Whether you use them in casual conversations or more relaxed professional settings, these nicknames can keep things lighthearted. So the next time you find yourself waiting for that one person who’s consistently late, why not give them a nickname that makes everyone smile?

Feel free to try out these nicknames with the people you know, and experiment with variations to fit different situations. After all, humor can make even the most frustrating moments a little bit more enjoyable!