water bear

noun

, Zoology.

1. a tardigrade.

water bear

noun

1. See tardigrade
   another name for a tardigrade

water bear

1. See tardigrade

Word History and Origins

Origin of water bear¹

First recorded in 1700–10

Example Sentences

He wonders whether other kinds of water bears might prove more splatter-proof.

From Science News

One of the most common little creatures that was caught in this trap, was the Tardigrada, or water bear.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus Mrs. Water-Bear makes a nursery out of her old skin, a device as ingenious as unexpected.

From Project Gutenberg