Bears are fascinating creatures that have captured the imagination of humans for centuries. These large, powerful animals are found in many parts of the world, and they have played an important role in human culture and mythology. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “bear,” as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a bear is “any of a family (Ursidae of the order Carnivora) of large heavy mammals of America and Eurasia that have long shaggy hair, rudimentary tails, and plantigrade feet and feed largely on fruit, plant matter, and insects as well as on flesh.” Another definition of bear is “to support the weight of; to carry; to endure.”
Origin
The word “bear” comes from the Old English word “bera,” which means “the brown one.” The word has roots in the Proto-Indo-European language, which is the ancestor of many modern European languages. The bear has been an important animal in many cultures throughout history, and it has played a role in mythology, folklore, and religion.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “bear” can vary slightly depending on the dictionary. For example, the Oxford English Dictionary defines bear as “a large, heavy, carnivorous mammal with shaggy fur and a very short tail, typically living in forests.” The Cambridge English Dictionary defines bear as “a large, powerful wild animal with thick fur and sharp claws.”
Associations
Bears are associated with many different things in human culture. In some cultures, they are seen as symbols of strength, power, and protection. In others, they are associated with wisdom, healing, and spirituality. Bears have also been used as symbols in heraldry, as well as in logos and advertising.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bear include endure, tolerate, carry, support, and sustain. These words all refer to the idea of bearing a burden or enduring a difficult situation.
Antonyms
Antonyms of bear include avoid, shun, evade, and escape. These words refer to the opposite of bearing a burden or enduring a difficult situation.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as bear include birth, berth, and barrow. These words all have to do with carrying or bearing something.
Example Sentences
- The brown bear is a powerful and majestic animal.
- She couldn’t bear the thought of losing her best friend.
- The mother bear carried her cubs on her back as they crossed the river.
- He endured the pain of his injuries with stoicism and grace.
- The company logo featured a stylized bear standing on its hind legs.