black bear

noun

: the common North American bear (Ursus americanus) ranging in color from brown or typical black to white

Illustration of black bear

Illustration of black bear

Examples of black bear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Don’t climb trees: Grizzlies and black bears can also climb. Helena Wegner, Sacbee.com, 23 May 2025 That’s more than can be said for black bears and cougars. Ted Updike, Outdoor Life, 22 May 2025 Its nearly 200,000 acres are home to black bears, brook trout, and the Shenandoah salamander. Chloe Arrojado, AFAR Media, 21 May 2025 The entire development would occupy 227 acres surrounded by undeveloped forest and lies on the eastern portion of Shingle Creek Basin — an area home to species including bald eagles, black bears and endangered bats. Natalia Jaramillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for black bear

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black bear was in 1589

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Cite this Entry

“Black bear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black%20bear. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

black bear

noun
: the common usually black-furred bear found in North American forests

More from Merriam-Webster on black bear

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