English Explanatory Dictionary

arrear

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adv
  1. Towards the rear, backwards.
  2. Behind time; overdue.
noun
  1. Work to be done, obligation.
  2. Unpaid debt.
  3. That which is in the rear or behind.

Pronunciation

/əˈɹɪə/ /əˈɹɪɹ/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-arrear.wav

Word forms

arrear more arrear most arrear arrears

Etymology

From Middle English arere, from Old French arere, from Vulgar Latin *ad retro (literally “to the rear”).

Derived words

arrears
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