brown bear

American  

noun

1. any of several medium-sized to large bears of the species Ursus arctos, inhabiting North America and Eurasia in dwindling populations, characterized by an upturned muzzle and a hump high on the back and ranging from light tan to near black; formerly considered three distinct species and often still referred to as such: U. horribilis, the grizzly bear; U. middendorffi, the Kodiac bear; and U. arctos, comprising European and Asian brown bears.

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brown bear British  

noun

1. a large ferocious brownish bear, Ursus arctos , inhabiting temperate forests of North America, Europe, and Asia See also grizzly bear Kodiak bear

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Etymology

Origin of brown bear

First recorded in 1775–85

Compare meaning

How does brown-bear compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• brown bear vs. grizzly bear

Example Sentences

It's of a brown bear with big claws and a blonde woman in a green pinafore dress beside it.

From BBC

In the cage next to Hector’s, an ancient brown bear slept curled in a corner.

From Literature

She is already preparing for a dream expedition with Paul to Finland next year, where they hope to photograph brown bears and wolves.

From BBC

Two types of bear are found in Japan - Asian black bears, and bigger brown bears which are found on the island of Hokkaido.

From BBC

Chunk received the most votes in a competition between 12 brown bears where voters pick the one they believe "best exemplifies fatness and success" as they prepare for winter hibernation.

From BBC