bear leader

or bear-leader

noun

1. (formerly) a tutor traveling with a wealthy or aristocratic young man.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bear leader¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

The fellow with hair like squirrel's fur—the little King's bear leader, whom you kept prisoner.

From Project Gutenberg

I have neither spirits nor inclination for turning bear-leader, and it is not a position I wish to undertake.

From Project Gutenberg

The bear-leader made signs to the people to be quiet, as he had something to say to them.

From Project Gutenberg

I have been not unknown as a scholar, and yet forced to live by turning bear-leader, and teaching a boy to spell.

From Project Gutenberg

I asked of my companion—a most bright and amusing Eton boy—to whom I was playing bear leader.

From Project Gutenberg