Etymology 1

Noun

1. A large omnivorous mammal, related to the dog and raccoon, having shaggy hair, a very small tail, and flat feet; a member of family Ursidae, particularly of subfamily Ursinae.
2. An animal that resembles a bear, such as a koala or ant bear.
3. An investor who sells commodities, securities or futures in anticipation of a fall in prices.

   Bears look for over-priced securities to sell short.

4. A difficult situation or problem.
5. A large hairy man, especially one who is gay.

Adjective

1. Characterized by or believing to benefit of declining prices in securities markets.

   The great bear market starting in 1929 scared a whole generation of investors.

Etymology 2

Verb

1. To carry something.
   • 2005, Plato, Sophist. Translation by Lesley Brown. 234b.

     imitations that bear the same name as the things

   • 1. To be equipped with something.

        the right to bear arms

     2. To declare as testimony.

        The jury could see he was bearing false witness.

     3. To put up with something.
     4. To give birth to someone or something.

        In Troy she becomes Paris’ wife, bearing him several children, all of whom die in infancy.

     5. To produce or yield something, such as fruit or crops.
     6. To be - or head - in a specific direction from the observer’s position.

        The harbour bears North by Northeast.