bearing
UK: ˈbeərɪŋ | US: ˈberɪŋ
n. the manner in which one conducts or carries oneself
n. the part of a machine that supports and reduces friction between moving parts
n. relevance or relation to a subject
n. direction or position relative to a fixed point
The word "bearing" originates from the Old English "beran," meaning "to carry" or "to support." The suffix "-ing" was added to form a noun denoting the action or result of carrying. Over time, the term expanded to include mechanical contexts (e.g., machine bearings that "carry" loads) and abstract meanings like "relevance" (how something "carries" weight in a discussion). The directional sense derives from navigation, where one's bearing "carries" them toward a destination.
Her confident bearing impressed everyone at the meeting.
The mechanic replaced the worn-out bearing in the engine.
Your comment has no bearing on the topic we're discussing.
The hiker checked his compass to determine his bearing.
Proper bearing maintenance extends the life of industrial machinery.