noun Uncommon

arrears

uh-REERZ

Arrears (noun) means Money that is owed and overdue, especially rent, wages, or payments. Example: “He fell three months behind and was soon in arrears on his rent.”

noun

Money that is owed and overdue, especially rent, wages, or payments.

"He fell three months behind and was soon in arrears on his rent."

How to use arrears

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUnpaid money that should already have been paid.

When to use it

Common in financial and legal contexts, especially rent, child support, or loan payments.

Common pairings

in arrears rent arrears arrears of payment

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He fell three months behind and was soon in _____ on his rent.

Rhymes for arrears

years Pears Sears Fears Mears shears clears Spears

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Frequently asked questions

What does “arrears” mean?

The word “arrears” means money that is owed and overdue, especially rent, wages, or payments. In plain terms, unpaid money that should already have been paid.

How do you pronounce “arrears”?

“Arrears” is pronounced uh-REERZ (/əˈɹɪə(ɹ)z/ in IPA).

How do you use “arrears” in a sentence?

Here is “arrears” used in a sentence: “He fell three months behind and was soon in arrears on his rent.”

What part of speech is “arrears”?

“Arrears” is a noun.

Is “arrears” a common word?

“Arrears” is an uncommon word in modern English.