2 entries under this word

Arrear

Ar-rear', adv.

adverb

adv. [Fr. arrière, Pr. ariere, from Lat. ad and retro, backward, behind. See ARRIERE.] Behind, at the hinder part. [Obs.]

To leave with speed Atalanta swift, arrear. Spenser.

noun

n. That which is behind in payment, or which remains unpaid, though due.

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

It is generally used in the plural, as, the arrears of rent, wages, and taxes, and supposes a part of the money already paid.