1
: a pome fruit of a tree (genus Pyrus, especially P. communis) of the rose family that typically has a pale green or brownish skin, a firm juicy flesh, and an oblong shape in which a broad base end tapers upward to a narrow stem end
2
: a tree bearing pears

Examples of pear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Originally designed by Jon Bannenberg, Sheergold’s interiors feature polished pear wood, Chesterfield sofas and brass detailing—creating the feel of a private country house at sea. Dea Jusufi, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026 Her recipe includes pears, celery, cucumbers, parsley, ginger, and orange. Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 22 July 2026 The team that has looked mostly hapless at the plate the last two months unloaded eight singles, seven home runs, four doubles, two walks and, on Christmas In July Night at Progressive Field, a partridge in a pear tree. Zack Meisel, New York Times, 21 July 2026 The piece features both white and yellow diamonds in brilliant and pear cuts. Hannah Malach, InStyle, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for pear

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pere, from Old English peru, from Vulgar Latin *pira, from Latin, plural of pirum

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pear was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Pear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pear. Accessed 29 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: a fruit that is commonly larger at the end opposite the stem and typically has a pale green or brownish skin and juicy flesh
also : a tree that bears pears and is related to the apple

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