Bear: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ป
bear
[beษr ]
Definitions
wild animal
A large, heavy mammal with thick fur and a non-retractable claw, typically found in forests and mountains. Bears are omnivorous and hibernate during the winter months.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bear |
Used in general contexts to refer to the animal or metaphorically to mean 'to endure'.
|
| bruin |
Often used in storytelling or literary contexts to describe a bear, particularly in European folklore.
|
| ursine |
Used in scientific or descriptive contexts to refer to bear-like characteristics or behaviors.
|
| grizzly |
Specifically refers to the grizzly bear, a subspecies of brown bear found in North America. Used in contexts discussing wildlife or nature.
|
Examples of usage
- The bear lumbered through the forest in search of food.
- Be sure to make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear.
endure
To endure or tolerate something difficult or painful. To carry the weight or responsibility of something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bear |
Use when referring to carrying a burden or enduring something challenging.
|
| endure |
Use when referring to suffering through something difficult over a long period.
|
| tolerate |
Use when referring to allowing or accepting something unpleasant or annoying.
|
| sustain |
Use when referring to keeping something going or supporting something over time.
|
Examples of usage
- She had to bear the loss of her beloved pet.
- He bore the burden of leadership with grace and determination.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'bear' comes from Old English 'bera,' which is related to words in Germanic languages, referring to this powerful animal.
- The term 'bear' was often avoided in ancient literature because people believed saying its name would summon it.
- The Latin word for bear, 'ursus,' is the root of names for bears in several languages, including 'ursine' in English, which describes bear-like traits.
Cultural Significance
- In many Native American cultures, the bear is seen as a symbol of strength, introspection, and motherhood.
- Winnie the Pooh is a charming bear character who showcases the playful and caring side of these animals in children's literature.
- Bear dances, ceremonies, and stories are important in various cultures, representing connection to nature and reverence for wildlife.
Nature & Behavior
- Bears have an incredible sense of smell, rivaling that of dogs, which helps them find food from long distances.
- Despite their size, bears are excellent climbers and can run fast, sometimes reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
- Most bear species hibernate during winter, slowing their metabolism and conserving energy when food is scarce.
Conservation Status
- Many bear species are endangered or threatened due to habitat loss and poaching for their fur and body parts.
- Efforts are ongoing worldwide to protect bear habitats and promote humane treatments in wildlife conservation.
- Bears play a crucial role in their ecosystems, helping to maintain healthy forests and habitats through their feeding habits.
Psychology
- The term 'bear' is often used metaphorically in psychology to represent someone who can carry heavy emotional burdens.
- People who identify with the qualities of strength and protection often reference being 'like a bear' in terms of their personality traits.
- The concept of 'bear hugs' is popularized as a way to express deep affection, imparting the image of a strong yet loving embrace.
Translations
Translations of the word "bear" in other languages:
๐ต๐น urso
๐ฎ๐ณ เคญเคพเคฒเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Bรคr
๐ฎ๐ฉ beruang
๐บ๐ฆ ะฒะตะดะผัะดั
๐ต๐ฑ niedลบwiedลบ
๐ฏ๐ต ็ (ใใพ)
๐ซ๐ท ours
๐ช๐ธ oso
๐น๐ท ayฤฑ
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ณฐ (gom)
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฏุจ (dubb)
๐จ๐ฟ medvฤd
๐ธ๐ฐ medveฤ
๐จ๐ณ ็ (xiรณng)
๐ธ๐ฎ medved
๐ฎ๐ธ bjรถrn
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแ (datvi)
๐ฆ๐ฟ ayฤฑ
๐ฒ๐ฝ oso