bear with

phrase

: to be indulgent, patient, or forbearing with (someone)

Please bear with me while I get my equipment set up.

Word History

First Known Use

1538, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of bear with was in 1538

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Bear with.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bear%20with. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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