- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
  Log In

Simple Definition of forbear

from our Learner's Dictionary

forbear

1 of 2

verb

foɚˈbeɚ

forbears; forbore -ˈboɚ

; forborne -ˈboɚn

; forbearing

formal : to choose not to do (something that you could do) : to avoid doing or saying (something)

He carefully forbore any mention of her name for fear of upsetting them.

We decided to forbear provoking him any further.

We decided to forbear from provoking him any further.

He forebore to mention her name.

forbear

2 of 2

variant spelling of forebear

Cite this Entry

Style

“Forbear.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/forbear. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

Copy Citation

Popular in Grammar & Usage

'Canceled' or 'cancelled'?

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Popular in Wordplay

Simple Definition of forbear

forbear

verb

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster on forbear

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

longueur

Popular in Grammar & Usage

'Canceled' or 'cancelled'?

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Popular in Wordplay

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More

8 Obscure Words for Sleepy Times

Cattywampus, Taradiddle, and More Funny-Sounding Words

The Words of the Week - Jun 19

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

'Canceled' or 'cancelled'?

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More

8 Obscure Words for Sleepy Times

Games & Quizzes