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Grizzly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grizzly

[ˈɡrɪzli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal

A grizzly is a large North American brown bear with grayish or yellowish fur and large claws. Grizzlies are known for their strength and are typically found in the western part of North America.

Synonyms

Ursus arctos horribilis, brown bear.

Examples of usage

  • The grizzly bear is a powerful predator in the wild.
  • Tourists were excited to see a grizzly in its natural habitat.
Context #2 | Adjective

informal

If something is described as grizzly, it means it is unpleasant or causing horror. This informal usage of grizzly is often used to describe gruesome or grisly scenes.

Synonyms

gruesome, horrible.

Examples of usage

  • The movie had some grizzly scenes that made viewers cringe.
  • After the accident, there was a grizzly sight on the road.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Ecology

  • Grizzlies play a vital role in ecosystems as apex predators, helping maintain balance by controlling populations of other species.
  • They can be found in various habitats, from forests to mountain ranges, showcasing their adaptability and resilience.
  • Grizzly bears hibernate during winter, entering a deep sleep that can last several months, which helps them survive when food is scarce.

Cultural Representation

  • Grizzly bears have been featured prominently in Native American folklore, often symbolizing strength and bravery.
  • These bears have also inspired numerous films and books, including the famous movie 'Grizzly Man' that explores the life of bear enthusiast Timothy Treadwell.
  • In American culture, the grizzly bear is a symbol of the wild and is featured on the California state bear flag.

Conservation

  • Grizzly populations have been recovering since the Endangered Species Act was enacted in 1973, showing a positive impact of conservation efforts.
  • These bears face threats due to habitat loss and climate change, which could impact their food sources.
  • In many regions, conservation organizations work to educate the public about grizzlies to promote coexistence and protection.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that people often view grizzly bears as symbols of courage and raw power, inspiring feelings of respect and fear.
  • The bear's image is used in psychology to represent primal instincts and the balance between aggression and protection.
  • In various cultures, the grizzly embodies the qualities of strength and survival, reflecting humanity's struggles against nature.

Origin of 'grizzly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'grizzly' comes from the word 'grisly,' which means something scary or ghastly, reflecting the bear's fierce reputation.
  • Historically, the term 'grizzly bear' became popular in American English in the 18th century as explorers encountered the species.
  • The Latin name for this bear is 'Ursus arctos horribilis,' which translates to 'horrible bear,' indicating its daunting size.

The word 'grizzly' originated from the term 'grisly,' which means causing horror or fear. The use of 'grizzly' to refer to the North American brown bear dates back to the early 19th century. The term 'grizzly bear' was first used in print in 1836. The name 'grizzly' likely comes from the grayish or grizzled appearance of the bear's fur.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,862, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.