Bearings
/ˈbɛərɪŋz/noun
A person’s position, direction, or manner of carrying themselves, or devices that support and guide moving parts.
Did you know?In medieval heraldry, a “bearing” could mean an emblem carried on a shield, while in navigation, “taking your bearings” meant locating yourself by visible landmarks or stars.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ber- / *bher-
“To carry, bear, or bring.”
Proto-Germanic
Germanic
*beraną
“To carry, bring, or bear.”
Old English
Old English
beran
“To carry, endure, give birth to, or support.”
Middle English
Middle English
beren / bering
“To carry, conduct oneself, or support something.”
14th–16th Century
English
bearing
“The manner of carrying oneself; a direction or position, especially in navigation; a heraldic emblem.”
Modern English
English
bearings
“Directions or orientation, personal conduct, heraldic devices, or mechanical supports for moving parts.”