arrear Meaning, Definition & Usage

Ar*rear" adverb

Etymology

OE. arere, OF. arere, ariere, F. arrière, fr. L. ad + retro backward. See Rear.

Definitions

1. To or in the rear; behind; backwards. Obs. Spenser.

Ar*rear" noun

Definitions

1. That which is behind in payment, or which remains unpaid, though due; esp. a remainder, or balance which remains due when some part has been paid; arrearage; -- commonly used in the plural, as, arrears of rent, wages, or taxes. Locke.

   For much I dread due payment by the Greeks Of yesterday's arrear. Cowper.

   I have a large arrear of letters to write. J. D. Forbes.