# bearer

/ˈbɛɹɝ/ (US) · /bˈeəɹɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bearer
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. a person who carries something

noun · CEFR B2

someone who carries or holds something, often something important.

For teachers: a person who carries, sustains, or supports something, often in a formal or official capacity.

- The flag bearer led the athletes into the stadium during the opening ceremony.
- As the primary bearer of the family's traditions, she felt a heavy responsibility to ensure the annual festival was conducted perfectly.

### 2. messenger

noun · CEFR B2

someone who brings a letter or a message to you.

For teachers: a person who delivers a letter, message, or news on behalf of another party.

- The bearer of the letter waited at the gate for a written reply.
- I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the flight has been cancelled due to the storm.

### 3. financial holder

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

the person who has a cheque or document and can receive the money for it.

For teachers: the person in possession of a negotiable instrument, such as a cheque or bond, that is payable to whoever holds it.

- The cheque was made payable to the bearer, so anyone could cash it.
- The central bank issued notes that promised to pay the bearer the equivalent value in gold upon request.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'payable to bearer'.

### 4. funeral attendant

noun · CEFR B2

one of the people who helps carry a coffin at a funeral.

For teachers: a person who assists in carrying the coffin at a funeral procession.

- His four closest friends acted as pall bearers during the service.
- The family requested that the deceased's former colleagues serve as bearers during the funeral march to the cemetery.

### 5. printing support

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a piece of metal or wood used in printing to keep the pressure even.

For teachers: a strip of material or type-high metal used to support the plate or even out the impression during the printing process.

- The printer adjusted the bearers to ensure the ink was applied smoothly across the page.
- Without properly aligned bearers, the printing press would apply uneven pressure, resulting in a blurred image on the final proof.

## Examples

- The bearer of the letter looked very tired.
- The bearer of the official document handed it directly to the manager.
- As the bearer of bad news, he delivered the verdict with a heavy heart and averted eye.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.