Definition of bear

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Bear, Mount >

bear²    (bâr) KEY 

NOUN:

1. 1. Any of various usually omnivorous mammals of the family Ursidae that have a shaggy coat and a short tail and walk with the entire lower surface of the foot touching the ground.
   2. Any of various other animals, such as the koala, that resemble a true bear.
2. A large, clumsy, or ill-mannered person.
3. 1. One, such as an investor, that sells securities or commodities in expectation of falling prices.
   2. A pessimist, especially regarding business conditions.
4. Slang Something that is difficult or unpleasant: The final exam was a bear.
5. Slang A highway patrol officer.

ADJECTIVE:

Characterized by falling prices: a bear market.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English bere, from Old English bera; see bher-² in Indo-European roots. Sense 3, probably from proverb To sell the bear's skin before catching the bear