forbear
/fɔːˈbɛə/
Group 9Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To politely or patiently restrain an impulse to do something; to refrain GRE
Example in Context
The senator chose to forbear from commenting on the ongoing investigation, citing a desire not to prejudice the proceedings.
Synonyms
hold backrefrainrestrain
Etymology
To carry oneself before an impulse, showing restraint.
- for- (Old English) — before
- beran (Old English) — to carry
Memory Aid
🐻Sounds like “four bear”
Imagine FOUR BEARS sitting on their paws, trying hard not to eat the honey — they FORBEAR!
Visual Association
🙈A bear covering its eyes, resisting the temptation of a pot of honey.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “forbear” mean on the GRE?
forbear (verb) means “To politely or patiently restrain an impulse to do something; to refrain”. The senator chose to forbear from commenting on the ongoing investigation, citing a desire not to prejudice the proceedings.
How to remember “forbear” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “forbear” sounds like “four bear”. Imagine FOUR BEARS sitting on their paws, trying hard not to eat the honey — they FORBEAR!
What are synonyms for “forbear”?
Common synonyms: hold back, refrain, restrain.