pear

noun

ˈper 

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

Butternut squash, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, figs, apples and pears are starting to fill the markets—because yes, fall is the season to indulge in abundant fruits and vegetables alongside our favorite meaty braises. — Joe Sevier, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 Sep. 2026

Some pear varieties need a compatible second variety nearby for pollination, says Spoonemore, so always check the pollination requirements before buying one. — Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 1 Sep. 2026

Roast 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once, till cauliflower and corn are tender and edges are browned, pear is soft. — ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026

Scatter edible pears, a few brown leaves, and mini gourds down your dining table to create a rustic centerpiece. — Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Aug. 2026

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

Phrases Containing pear

• alligator pear
• Anjou pear
• Asian pear
• avocado pear
• Bradford callery pear
• Bradford pear
• callery pear
• d'Anjou pear
• go pear-shaped
• pear psylla
• pear-shaped
• prickly pear
• prickly pear cactus
• prickly pear fruit
• vegetable pear

Rhymes for pear

• air
• ayre
• bahr
• bare
• blare
• care
• chair
• claire
• ere
• err
• eyre
• fair

Kids Definition

pear

noun

ˈpa(ə)r 

ˈpe(ə)r

: 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