polar bear

noun

: a large creamy-white carnivorous bear (Ursus maritimus synonym Thalarctos maritimus) that inhabits arctic regions

Illustration of polar bear

Illustration of polar bear

Examples of polar 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.
With no fixed itinerary or schedule, guests do and see more due to the small group size—experiencing mind-boggling local wildlife, such as polar bears, walruses, seals, and more. Lewis Nunn, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024 Leave a comment View Comments Look here for a prowling puma, a hunting polar bear cub and a ghostly barn owl. Maureen O'Hare, CNN, 30 Nov. 2024 The findings also raise concerns for human health, since some groups living in the Arctic eat polar bears, and some of the pathogens can be transmitted to humans. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024 Kris Jenner's Christmas Tree Kris' 2014 tree was equally impressive sans polar bear, sporting a classic black-and-white theme that complimented her home's decor. Mackenzie Schmidt, People.com, 24 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for polar bear 

Word History

First Known Use

1769, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polar bear was in 1769

Dictionary Entries Near polar bear

Cite this Entry

“Polar bear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polar%20bear. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

polar bear

noun
: a large creamy-white fish-eating bear that lives in arctic regions

More from Merriam-Webster on polar bear

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!