pear

noun

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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That little green or yellow can in the grocery store that boasts pictures of pears, cherries, grapes, and other fruit on the label? Josh Miller, Southern Living, 4 July 2026 Plant your pear tree in a sunny location and choose a spot with well-draining soil to ensure the best success. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 4 July 2026 The nose kicks off with a kick of Calvados, and early aromas include poached pears and apple jelly. David Thomas Tao, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 With high-quality pear wood and silk fabric in neutral colors, this set of two Blublu fans is a stylish and useful little extra to slip into your bag. Nneya Richards, Travel + Leisure, 1 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 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

pear

noun
ˈpa(ə)r How to pronounce pear (audio)
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

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