forbear
[ fawr-bair ]
/ fɔrˈbɛər /
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verb (used with object), for·bore [fawr-bawr], /fɔrˈbɔr/, for·borne [fawr-bawrn], /fɔrˈbɔrn/, for·bear·ing.
verb (used without object), for·bore [fawr-bawr], /fɔrˈbɔr/, for·borne [fawr-bawrn], /fɔrˈbɔrn/, for·bear·ing.
to refrain; hold back.
to be patient or self-controlled when subject to annoyance or provocation.
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Origin of forbear
OTHER WORDS FROM forbear
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022
How to use forbear in a sentence
We must all be profoundly grateful for the magnificent achievements of our forbearers in this century.
British Dictionary definitions for forbear (1 of 2)
forbear1
/ (fɔːˈbɛə) /
verb -bears, -bearing, -bore or -borne
(when intr, often foll by from or an infinitive) to cease or refrain (from doing something)
archaic to tolerate or endure (misbehaviour, mistakes, etc)
Derived forms of forbear
forbearer, nounforbearingly, adverbWord Origin for forbear
Old English forberan; related to Gothic frabairan to endure
British Dictionary definitions for forbear (2 of 2)
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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