Added 7 October 2026
bear
/bɛə/ noun
In Latin: ursus, ursa Wiktionary
noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about bear at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
-
A large, generally omnivorous mammal (a few species are purely carnivorous or herbivorous) of the family Ursidae; having shaggy fur, a very small tail, and flat feet. The meat of this animal.
We had barbecued bear for dinner.
-
The meat of this animal.
We had barbecued bear for dinner.
- A rough, unmannerly, uncouth person. .mw-parser-output .defdate{font-size:smaller}
verb
adjective
-
Characterized by declining prices in securities markets or by belief that the prices will fall.
The great bear market starting in 1929 scared a whole generation of investors.
verb
-
To carry or convey, literally or figuratively.
They came bearing gifts.
-
To carry (weapons, flags or symbols of rank, office, etc.) upon one's person, especially visibly; to be equipped with (weapons, etc.).
the right to bear arms
-
To wear (garments, pieces of jewellery, etc.).
The queen bore the royal scepter and crown as she processed into the hall.
Origin
From Middle English bere, from Old English bera, from Proto-West Germanic *berō, from Proto-Germanic *berô (“bear”), from Proto-Indo-European *bʰerH- (“brown”).
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)