Definition

An amount of money that is owed and has not been paid on time.

Example

The landlord demanded payment for the arrearage before allowing the tenants to renew their lease.

Conversation

Have you heard about the arrearage on my rent this month?

Yeah, I heard it’s getting pretty high. What happened?

I had some unexpected expenses, so now I’m a bit behind.

That’s tough! Do you need help figuring it out?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Arrearage is formed from "arrear" (from Old French *arrier*, meaning behind or in the rear) and the suffix "-age" (indicating a state or condition). The term refers to the state of being behind in payments or obligations.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'behind' ('arrear') in your payments, and the '-age' indicates a condition. This helps you remember that 'arrearage' means the condition of being behind in what you owe.

Visually Confused Words