ARREAR

Etymology

Adverb

arrear (comparative more arrear, superlative most arrear)

(obsolete) Towards the rear, backwards. [14th-16th c.]

(obsolete) Behind time; overdue. [15th-19th c.]

Noun

arrear (plural arrears)

Work to be done, obligation.

Unpaid debt.

That which is in the rear or behind.

Source: Wiktionary

Ar*rear", adv. Etym: [OE. arere, OF. arere, ariere, F. arrière, fr. L. ad + retro backward. See Rear.]

Definition: To or in the rear; behind; backwards. [Obs.] Spenser.

Ar*rear", n.

Definition: 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. In arrear or In arrears, behind; backward; behindhand; in debt.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition