Bear
/bΙΙr/noun
A large, heavy mammal that walks on the soles of its feet.
Did you know?In ancient cultures, bears were often seen as powerful shapeshifters and symbols of strength, linked to shamanistic rituals.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bher-
βto carry; to bearβ
Old English
Old English
bera
βa bear (the animal)β
Old High German
OHG
bera
βbear, a large mammalβ
Latin
Latin
ferus
βwild, savage (related to untamed nature)β
Middle English
Middle English
bere
βbear (the animal, used in literature)β
Modern English
English
bear
βthe large mammal known for its strength and size.β