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Bearing: meaning, definitions and examples

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bearing

 

[ˈbɛərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

navigation

The direction or position of something, especially as it relates to a fixed point such as the North Pole.

Synonyms

direction, heading, orientation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bearing

Describes the way someone carries themselves, often related to posture or demeanor.

  • Her dignified bearing made her stand out in the crowd.
  • Despite the crisis, his steady bearing reassured his team.
direction

Refers to the course along which someone or something moves. Broadly used in both literal and abstract senses.

  • She asked for directions to the nearest hospital.
  • His life took a new direction after the incident.
orientation

Refers to the position of something in relation to its surroundings. Often used in a broader sense to describe how someone adjusts to new circumstances.

  • The orientation of the satellite's panels ensures optimal solar energy absorption.
  • The new employee orientation includes a tour of the office.
heading

Used mainly in navigation to describe the direction in which a vehicle or person is moving. Also can be used in textual formatting to title sections of writing.

  • The ship maintained a steady heading due north.
  • He saw the heading on the email and knew it was important.

Examples of usage

  • She checked the bearing of the compass before setting off on her hike.
  • The ship's bearing was off course due to the storm.
Context #2 | Noun

mechanical

The part of a machine that supports another part and allows it to move freely.

Synonyms

fulcrum, pivot, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bearing

Use this term in terms of someone's demeanor or appearance. It is often used to describe the way a person carries themselves.

  • His dignified bearing made everyone respect him.
support

This term is best used when referring to something that holds up or sustains another thing, both physically and metaphorically.

  • The bridge's support beams need to be reinforced.
  • She provided emotional support to her friend during a tough time.
pivot

Use this word when describing a central point around which something turns, or in a more abstract sense, to describe a crucial turning point or change in direction.

  • The door swung open on its pivot.
  • The company's decision to pivot to online sales saved it from bankruptcy.
fulcrum

This term is used primarily in physics and mechanics to refer to the point on which a lever pivots, but can also be used metaphorically to describe a pivotal or central element.

  • Place the fulcrum closer to the load to reduce the effort needed.
  • Education is the fulcrum of a thriving society.

Examples of usage

  • The ball bearings in the wheel allowed it to spin smoothly.
  • The machine requires regular maintenance to ensure the proper function of its bearings.
Context #3 | Noun

behavior

The way in which a person conducts themselves or behaves.

Synonyms

conduct, demeanor, manner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bearing

Refers to the direction or position relative to a point, usually in navigational contexts.

  • The compass showed a bearing of 45 degrees north-east.
  • We need to find our bearing before continuing our hike.
demeanor

Describes outward behavior or appearance, often focusing on facial expressions and body language.

  • Her calm demeanor helped ease the tension in the room.
  • Despite his serious demeanor, he was very friendly.
conduct

Refers to behavior, especially in terms of moral or ethical standards. Can have a formal or official tone.

  • His conduct in the courtroom was exemplary.
  • The code of conduct for the employees is very strict.
manner

Refers to someone's way of behaving or speaking, can also imply politeness or style.

  • She greeted everyone with a pleasant manner.
  • His abrupt manner can be off-putting to some people.

Examples of usage

  • Her calm bearing in the face of adversity was admirable.
  • The soldier's bearing showed his discipline and training.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Old English word 'beran,' which means 'to carry.'
  • It originally referred to how one carries or supports oneself, both physically and emotionally.

Psychology

  • A confident bearing can positively affect one's self-esteem and how others perceive you.
  • Body language experts indicate that your posture can influence your mood and emotional state.

Literature

  • In classic literature, a character’s bearing often reflects their social status or internal struggles.
  • Writers often use detailed descriptions of characters’ bearing to convey deeper themes and emotions.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the way individuals carry themselves can indicate respect, authority, or submission.
  • Historical leaders were often depicted in a way that emphasized their commanding bearing to inspire confidence.

Art and Performance

  • In visual arts, an individual's bearing can be portrayed through posture and expression to reflect a specific mood.
  • Dancers are trained to maintain a strong bearing to convey grace and strength during performances.

Translations

Translations of the word "bearing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rolamento

🇮🇳 बियरिंग

🇩🇪 Lager

🇮🇩 bantalan

🇺🇦 підшипник

🇵🇱 łożysko

🇯🇵 ベアリング

🇫🇷 roulement

🇪🇸 cojinete

🇹🇷 rulman

🇰🇷 베어링

🇸🇦 تحمل

🇨🇿 ložisko

🇸🇰 ložisko

🇨🇳 轴承

🇸🇮 ležaj

🇮🇸 legur

🇰🇿 подшипник

🇬🇪 ტარება

🇦🇿 döşəmə

🇲🇽 cojinete

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,554, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.