# grizzly

/ˈɡɹɪzɫi/ (US) · /ɡɹˈɪzli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grizzly
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a very large, powerful brown bear that lives in North America. These bears are known for being strong and sometimes dangerous to humans.

For teachers: a large, powerful subspecies of brown bear native to North America, characterized by a distinctive hump on its shoulders and long claws. Often used as a shortened form of 'grizzly bear'.

## Examples

- The hikers saw a grizzly from a safe distance.
- Wildlife experts warn that a grizzly can run much faster than a human, even when going uphill.
- Conservation efforts in the national park have led to a steady increase in the grizzly population, though this success brings new challenges regarding human-wildlife conflict in nearby towns.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before 'bear', but functions as a standalone noun in North American English.

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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.