Pear: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when specifically referring to the fruit from the pear tree, Pyrus. It is appropriate in culinary contexts or when describing the fruit's physical characteristics.

• I had a ripe pear for breakfast this morning.
• Pears are rich in dietary fiber.

Use when referring to any sweet and fleshy product of a tree or other plant that contains seed and can be eaten as food. It is a general term suitable for discussing categories of food or dietary habits.

• Eating a variety of fruits is good for your health.
• Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content.

Use in more formal or scientific contexts when describing fruits from the family Rosaceae, specifically the subfamily Maloideae. It is suitable for botanical discussions or specialized topics.

• The apple is the most widely known pomaceous fruit.
• Pomaceous fruits like pears and quinces have a core of several small seeds.

This refers to the fruit itself, typically used in contexts related to food, gardening, or describing the taste and nutritional aspects of the fruit.

• I love eating a ripe pear for breakfast.
• We planted a pear tree in our backyard.

Often used to describe objects or designs that resemble the shape of a tear, which is narrower at the top and wider at the bottom. It can be used in various contexts like jewelry, design, and anatomy.

• She wore a teardrop-shaped pendant around her neck.
• The teardrop shape of the camper van is very aerodynamic.

This can describe something that has the shape of a pear, but it is also often used in a figurative way to indicate that something has gone wrong or failed. The latter use generally has a negative connotation.

• The vase has a beautiful pear-shaped design.
• Everything went pear-shaped after the main speaker canceled.