In the state of Virginia (
DMV), "Late" is used to refer to someone who is either about to miss out on something really
sweet at a party or someone who left to do something else.
One should emphasize on the word "late" when it is being said. If the person is literally late to the party then they are "about to be late", because there is still a chance for them to enjoy themselves, but if they take too long and start to
piss everyone off then they will be "LATE!".