late bloomer

NOUN

person slow to develop talent

Synonyms

WEAK

naïve person sleeper slowpoke up-and-comer

Antonyms

WEAK

child prodigy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A late bloomer, Pegula has taken the long road.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

A 64-year-old late bloomer who arrived in Bloomington with a cocky press conference and group of James Madison transfers, Cignetti delivered swagger, talent and a gift for navigating college football’s turbulent, transfer-happy economy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 10, 2026

Dimsdale was a late bloomer when it came to music.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2025

Miner said he has focused on being patient and letting the process play out on being a late bloomer.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 19, 2025

Eleanor hoped that Ben was a late bloomer.

From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell