Departed After the scheduled time (4)

I believe the answer is:

late

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'departed' is the definition.
(late can mean deceased)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for late that I've seen before include "Behind time; deceased" , "Dead or not punctual" , "Teal (anag.)" , "not quick enough" , "After the expected time" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail and The Guardian.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.