Pronunciation: [wɒz ɐɹˈi͡əz] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of "was arrears" is actually "was in arrears." In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be pronounced /wɑz ɪn əˈrɪrz/. The word "arrears" refers to overdue or unpaid debts, and the phrase "in arrears" means that someone is behind on their payments. It is important to use proper spelling and grammar in written communication to avoid confusion and misinterpretation.
The term "was arrears" does not have an established etymology as it seems to be a combination of two separate words, "was" and "arrears". Each word individually has its own etymology.
1. "Was": The word "was" is the past tense of the verb "be". It originated from the Old English word "wæs", which had a similar meaning. The exact origins of "wæs" are unclear, but it is believed to have evolved from a Proto-Germanic word "wesan" or "wizan".
2. "Arrears": The word "arrears" refers to the overdue or unpaid debts or obligations. It originated from the Middle English word "arere" or "arat" which meant "behind" or "backward".
